How does nicotine affect the nervous system?

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Nicotine affects the nervous system by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain and peripheral nerves. This stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and acetylcholine, increasing alertness, attention, and heart rate. Dopamine release within the brain’s reward pathways also reinforces nicotine use and contributes to its highly addictive properties..