While you're correct that cigarettes do indeed have many chemicals added to them in addition to tobacco, it's the NICOTINE that is the primary cause of addiction, and that's widely known and acknowledged, despite some fringe websites that try to promote alternative conspiracy theories (as if the tobacco industry itself wasn't already conspiratorial enough!).
From the article "Nicotine Addiction and Smoking: Health Effects and Interventions" , for example:
"Nicotine addiction works by activating the brain's reward system, particularly the ventral tegmental area in the midbrain, similar to other addictive drugs and alcohol. This activation stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain's reward pathways, creating pleasurable sensations that reinforce the desire to use nicotine repeatedly. Over time, the brain adapts to these increased dopamine levels, leading to tolerance, where more nicotine is needed to achieve the same effects. Additionally, withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and strong cravings occur when nicotine levels drop, making it challenging for individuals to quit. These neurobiological mechanisms contribute to the powerful and persistent nature of nicotine addiction."
I'm surprised that Mayoclinic doesn't moderate these discussions to prevent the spread of obvious mis/disinformation.
Hi @sandguy, I noticed that you wished to post a URL to an article with your post. You will be able to add URLs to your posts in a few days. There is a brief period where new members can't post links. We do this to deter spammers and keep the community safe.
Allow me to post it for you.
- Nicotine Addiction and Smoking: Health Effects and Interventions https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537066/
You can read more about the Community Guidelines and how Mayo Clinic Connect is moderated here:
- Community Guidelines https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/tab/community-guidelines/
- Why & How We Moderate https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/tab/moderators/#ch-tab-navigation