Nicotine improves cognitive ability, says study

Previous short-term studies with nicotine have shown attention and memory improvement in people with Alzheimer's disease. This study looked the effects of nicotine on people with mild cognitive impairment, which is the stage between normal ageing and dementia when people have mild memory or thinking problems but no significant disability.

The study was published in the January 10, 2012, print issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This is an interesting preliminary study that builds on previous evidence of the possible benefits of nicotine. While the findings indicate some limited improvements in memory, attention and mental processing, further studies are needed to establish whether the findings are clinically important.'

'People should under no circumstances consider self-medicating with nicotine patches or cigarettes. A great deal more research is needed into this area, and the health risks of smoking massively outweigh any potential nicotine benefits. The best way to reduce your risk of developing dementia is to get regular exercise, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, stop smoking and limit your alcohol intake.'

Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society

Research Reference: Paul Newhouse, MD, et al 'Nicotine treatment of mild cognitive Impairment: A 6-month double-blind pilot clinical trial' published in Neurology, American Academy of Neurology, January 10, 2012

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051 
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them 
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland 
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk