#344 - AMA #70: Nicotine: impact on cognitive function, performance, and mood, health risks, delivery modalities, and smoking cessation strategies | The Peter Attia Drive | Podwise
This episode explores the complexities of nicotine, disentangling its effects from those of tobacco. Against the backdrop of widespread misconceptions linking nicotine solely to the negative health impacts of smoking, the discussion clarifies that many of tobacco's harmful effects (cancer, cardiovascular disease) stem from components other than nicotine itself. More significantly, the conversation delves into the risks associated with nicotine use, including addiction, sleep disturbances, and potential cardiovascular effects, while acknowledging the limited human research on these aspects. For instance, the podcast highlights a Mendelian randomization study attempting to isolate nicotine's impact, finding that much of the harm is attributable to non-nicotinic components of tobacco smoke. The discussion then examines various nicotine delivery methods, ranking them by harmfulness, and touches upon nicotine's potential roles in cognitive enhancement and physical performance. Finally, the podcast addresses smoking cessation strategies and offers guidance for those seeking to quit, often involving nicotine replacement therapy. What this means for public health is a more nuanced understanding of nicotine's risks and benefits, paving the way for more informed discussions about harm reduction and cessation strategies.
