Effects of Chemical Brain Assault
Excerpts from "Mapping the Mind", Rita Carter
Nicotine
Activates dopamine neurons by mimicking the effect of dopamine in binding to receptors in the cells' surface. Its initial effect is therefore similar to a dopamine rush. Nicotine quickly desensitizes the cells it works on so the initial effects are no longer felt. Nicotine also affects neurons that produce a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. This is one of the chemicals involved in alertness and is known to boost memory.