While overseeing several research projects in the Nicotine Research Lab at the
Univ of Mich several years ago, I immersed myself in a surprisingly complex
literature. I emerged with a new found respect for the profound and diverse
neurochemical and physiological effects of nicotine ! Certainly, it has been
demonstrated that nicotine modulates the activity of catecholamine,
serotonergic, acetycholine, and even endorphin systems. Some mapping of this
activity has been done and theories of underlying mechanism exist, but results
(in humans) are sketchy at this point. . . One thing 'for sure' - it doesn't
seem surprising that the availabilty of such a neuronally-active substance
while sleeping might affect dream states.
In response to Michael's post, I posed the questions to another list
(affiliated with the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco) for input
from the experts. The responses received so far are copied below:
If more responses arrive, I will pass the info along. But for now, I'm off to
enjoy a Valentine's Day dinner with my favorite guy !
Sandra
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Sandra Nagel Randall, Ph.D.
Wayne County Community College District, MI
Department of Human and Community Development
Athabasca University, Alberta, Canada
Biopsychology Consultant
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Off: 248-948-8162
Fax: 248-948-5090
<A HREF="http://members.aol.com/snrandall">http://members.aol.com/snrandall
</A>
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From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] (jtate)
Sender: [EMAIL PROTECTED] (Nicotine, tobacco , and smoking)
Reply-to: <A HREF="mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]">[EMAIL PROTECTED]
</A> (Nicotine, tobacco , and smoking)
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sandra,
vivid dreams are a relatively common side effect of nicotine patches. I'm not
certain, but i believe the package insert for the patch lists vivid dreams
(and
weird ones) as a side effect.
Hope this helps,
James C. Tate, Ph.D.
Subj: FW: Nicotine Patch / weird dreams
Date: 2/14/99 11:38:02 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] (Morgan, Glen (NCI))
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ('[EMAIL PROTECTED]')
Hi Sandra-
They are common - most folks do not find them distressful. If the dreams are
bothersome, they can take the patch off at bedtime.
There is some research on patches and smokeless - none that I know of with
cigars (we will get to it). Most nicotine replacement with smokeless involves
nicotine gum.
Glen Morgan
NCI
