Is Synthetic Nicotine More Addictive than Nicotine?

Both synthetic and “natural” nicotine are thought to interact with the brain in the same way. There is no available evidence to suggest that Synthetic Nicotine is more or less addictive than plant-derived nicotine. Nicotine in any form, although considered relatively safe as a chemical, can be highly addictive.

Nicotine is addictive because it changes the chemistry of our brains. It releases dopamine in the same way, and in the same areas of the brain, as other addictive drugs. Although the quantity of released dopamine is less than with drugs like opium, the brain still craves that chemical release. So far, nothing we know suggests that Synthetic Nicotine releases more or less dopamine than ordinary nicotine.

One of the reasons vaping is considered better for you than smoking, and even as a recognized smoking-cessation tool in some countries, is because it allows you to control your nicotine intake more accurately. It is far easier to reduce your nicotine intake through vaping than by trying to smoke weaker or fewer cigarettes.