Nicotine - Are There Any Medical Reasons for Taking This Substance?

Are There Any Medical Reasons for Taking This Substance?

Some small studies have been performed to see if nicotine patches help reduce memory loss in Alzheimer's diseaseA brain disease that usually strikes older individuals and results in memory loss, impaired thinking, and personality changes; symptoms worsen over time. patients and muscle tremors in Parkinson's diseaseAn incurable nervous disorder that worsens with time and occurs most often after the age of fifty; it is generally caused by a loss of dopamine-producing brain cells; symptoms include overall weakness, partial paralysis of the face, trembling hands, and a slowed, shuffling walk. patients. Since nicotine is so highly addictive, however, its valid medical uses are considered very minimal.

The only acceptable medical use for nicotine is to help people overcome addiction to nicotine. "Nicotine delivery systems" include skin patches, gum, inhalers, and nasal sprays. Tobacco users trying to quit the habit can curb nicotine's withdrawalThe process of gradually cutting back on the amount of a drug being taken until it is discontinued entirely; also the accompanying physiological effects of terminating use of an addictive drug. symptoms with these products. The products become very dangerous if a person smokes while using them. In that case, nicotine overdose is possible. Although some nicotine replacement products are available over the counter, most encourage nicotine addicts to seek the advice and counsel of a medical doctor while attempting to curb nicotine use.