Can nicotine cause cognitive decline?

Andrew Huberman has discussed the impacts of nicotine on cognitive function. While nicotine can enhance cognitive performance in the short term by increasing attention, focus, and cognitive capacity, long-term use, particularly through smoking and vaping, can lead to significant cognitive decline. This decline is linked to the damage nicotine delivery methods cause to the vascular system, crucial for brain function, leading to memory lapses and overall reduced brain health 1 2 3.

Nicotine, when consumed through safer methods like gum or patches and in moderate dosages, may offer some cognitive benefits. However, excessive and prolonged use can impair cognitive function and cause dependence, especially harmful in younger individuals whose brains are still developing 4 2.