Your Body on Nicotine

Whether in a vape, a cigarette, or chewable tobacco, this addictive drug is a real drag.

December 2022/January 2023

Krystnell Storr-Smith

You’re at a party and a friend hands you a vape pen, saying it will help you relax. Should you take it? Before you puff, know that the vape is full of a highly addictive chemical called nicotine. When you consider all the negative effects of nicotine use, you’ll probably agree that vaping is not relaxing, it’s downright stressful. Short term, nicotine use can give you stained teeth, bad breath, cavities, and mouth sores. Long-term use doubles your risk of dying from cancer. And research suggests that teens’ developing brains are more susceptible to becoming addicted to nicotine. A habit that is gross, expensive, and could ultimately kill you? Thanks, but no thanks. Read on for all the ways nicotine affects your body, mind, and mood.

Smoke Signals

It is illegal to sell products containing nicotine to anyone under the age of 21. Even so, some companies that make these products use sneaky tactics to target children. How many of these have you seen?

Ads in movies and video games
Products displayed on lower shelves, where children can easily see them
Candy-flavored items

Mood

Icon of person slumped with head bent into knees

Nicotine use has been linked to increased symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Muscles and Bones

Nicotine causes blood vessels to narrow. This reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to your muscles and bones, hampering growth and increasing your risk of bone fractures.

Brain

Nicotine harms the parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control, making it difficult to concentrate and learn new skills.

Lungs

Smoking nicotine products like cigarettes and vape pens causes inflammation in your lungs. This can permanently damage your lungs, making them vulnerable to infections and disease.