New nicotine gum and patch study shows less hunger but heart risks for non-smokers in 2024

New studies show nicotine patches and gum might help you eat less and think better. But, your heart could be at risk if you don't smoke.
By Newsroom | Health, Science |

Recent reports suggest nicotine, separate from smoking, might offer benefits like reduced appetite, extended lifespan, and improved brain function. However, these findings are presented alongside warnings about potential harms, especially with long-term use. The context is a growing need for solutions to weight gain and cognitive decline, particularly in an aging population.

Unpacking the Claims

Studies have begun to look into nicotine's effects outside of tobacco products. The focus is on how non-smoking methods of taking nicotine, like patches and gum, might influence the body.

Amazing new side-effect of nicotine - it can help you eat less, live longer and even sharpen your brain. But only if you take it like this… - 1

  • Appetite Control: Some research points to nicotine's ability to suppress appetite.

  • Cognitive Function: There are suggestions that nicotine could sharpen the brain.

  • Longevity: Preliminary ideas hint at potential links to a longer life.

These potential upsides are discussed in the context of serious global health issues:

  • Rising rates of obesity worldwide.

  • The growing number of older adults experiencing cognitive changes.

Evidence and Caution

Research into nicotine's effects is ongoing, with early findings presenting a mixed picture.

Amazing new side-effect of nicotine - it can help you eat less, live longer and even sharpen your brain. But only if you take it like this… - 2

  • Studies examined how nicotine might help control weight and boost brain skills.

  • The emphasis is on forms like nicotine patches and nicotine gum, not smoking.

However, experts urge caution.

"We know little about the effects of using nicotine for long periods in people who have never smoked," notes Jasmine Khouja, a psychologist and nicotine researcher at the University of Bath.

She highlights specific concerns:

  • Nicotine can raise resting heart rate.

  • There's some proof that using nicotine over a long time could harm the cardiovascular system.

Professor Taylor also points out that nicotine's stimulating effects spread through the entire body.

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Diverse Perspectives on Nicotine

The information available presents different views on nicotine's role.

Potential Positives

  • Non-smoking forms of nicotine are being studied for their potential to aid in weight control.

  • Research suggests a possibility of enhancing cognitive function.

  • Early concepts explore links between nicotine and longevity.

Clear Warnings

  • Long-term effects on individuals who have never smoked are not well understood.

  • Nicotine is known to increase heart rate.

  • There is a risk of cardiovascular damage with extended exposure.

Expert Insights

Researchers are working to understand nicotine's complex actions.

  • Jasmine Khouja, a psychologist and nicotine researcher at the University of Bath, states that the long-term impact of nicotine use on non-smokers is largely unknown.

  • She points out that nicotine is a stimulant with known effects on heart rate and potential risks to the cardiovascular system over time.

Conclusion

Current reports indicate that nicotine, when used in non-smoking forms like patches or gum, may have beneficial effects on appetite and cognitive abilities. These findings emerge as significant health challenges like obesity and age-related cognitive decline become more prominent. Nevertheless, a clear consensus among experts emphasizes the substantial unknowns regarding the long-term consequences of such use, particularly for individuals who have never smoked. Concerns about increased heart rate and potential cardiovascular damage warrant careful consideration and further investigation before any widespread recommendations can be made.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can nicotine gum or patches help people eat less and live longer in 2024?
Some new studies show nicotine, when not smoked, might help control hunger and possibly improve brain function. Experts are looking into if it could help people live longer, but more research is needed.
Q: What are the risks of using nicotine gum or patches for people who don't smoke?
Using nicotine gum or patches for a long time could be bad for your heart. It can make your heart beat faster and might harm your heart over many years. We don't know enough about these long-term effects for people who have never smoked.
Q: Why are scientists studying nicotine outside of smoking now?
Scientists are studying nicotine in non-smoking forms because many people are dealing with weight gain and problems with thinking as they get older. They want to find new ways to help these health issues.
Q: What did the University of Bath researcher say about nicotine use?
Jasmine Khouja, a researcher from the University of Bath, said that we still know very little about how using nicotine for a long time affects people who have never smoked. She warned that nicotine can increase heart rate and may harm the heart over time.