Are There Any Benefits of Nicotine?

The truth about the risks and rewards of nicotine use

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that is found in tobacco products. It is also available in other forms, such as nicotine gum, patches, and e-cigarettes. While nicotine is known to be harmful to health, there is some evidence to suggest that it may also have some benefits. Here, we'll take a look at the pros and cons of nicotine use and help you decide if it's right for you.

Benefits of Nicotine

May improve cognitive function

Nicotine has been shown to improve attention, memory, and reaction time. In one study, participants who took a nicotine patch performed better on cognitive tests than those who took a placebo patch.

Nicotine and Cognitive Function

Benefit	How to Get It
Improved attention	Take a nicotine patch or lozenge
Enhanced memory	Use nicotine gum or an e-cigarette
Faster reaction time	Inhale nicotine vapor from an e-cigarette

May reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease

Nicotine has been shown to protect against the development of Parkinson's disease. In one study, people who smoked cigarettes were less likely to develop Parkinson's disease than those who did not smoke.

Nicotine and Parkinson's Disease

Benefit	How to Get It
Reduced risk of Parkinson's disease	Smoke cigarettes or use nicotine replacement therapy
Protection against neurodegenerative diseases	Take a nicotine patch or lozenge
Improved motor function	Use nicotine gum or an e-cigarette

May help with weight loss

Nicotine has been shown to suppress appetite and increase metabolism. In one study, people who took a nicotine patch lost more weight than those who took a placebo patch.

Nicotine and Weight Loss

Benefit	How to Get It
Suppressed appetite	Take a nicotine patch or lozenge
Increased metabolism	Use nicotine gum or an e-cigarette
Enhanced weight loss	Inhale nicotine vapor from an e-cigarette

Are There Any Benefits of Nicotine?