Nicotine

Definition

Nicotine is a highly addictive stimulant found in tobacco that triggers complex biochemical reactions in the brain, leading to feelings of pleasure and reduced stress.

Related terms

Dopamine:

A neurotransmitter associated with movement, attention and learning and the brain’s pleasure and reward system.

Addiction:

A chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive, or difficult to control, despite harmful consequences.

Withdrawal:

The discomfort and distress that follow discontinuing an addictive substance.