Desensitization, Dependence, and Dopamine

Nicotine isn’t just addictive—it might be one of the most misunderstood nootropics in modern medicine. In this masterclass, you’ll learn how controlled, low-dose nicotine may enhance brain performance, boost neuroplasticity, improve mitochondrial function, and potentially extend lifespan. Host Dave Asprey breaks down the surprising science behind this controversial compound, separating fact from fear—and exposing the real risks that nobody talks about. 

Watch this episode on YouTube for the full video experience: 

https://www.youtube.com/@DaveAspreyBPR 

You’ll discover how nicotine affects neurotransmitters, why it may help with ADHD and focus, and how it compares to other cognitive enhancers like caffeine, nootropics, and even smart drugs. Dave explores how nicotine can be used to hack metabolism, enhance sleep optimization, and support fasting or ketosis protocols—if used properly. 

He also reveals the forms of nicotine that are safest (spoiler: it’s not vapes or cigarettes), how nicotine works at the receptor level, and what the science says about long-term health effects. This episode blends functional medicine, brain optimization, and biohacking into one powerful, myth-busting breakdown. 

You’ll Learn: 

• How nicotine affects mitochondria, neurotransmitters, and dopamine signaling 

• Why nicotine may boost neuroplasticity, memory, and attention span 

• How low-dose nicotine compares to caffeine, modafinil, and other nootropics 

• The safest delivery forms (and the ones to avoid) 

• Whether nicotine supports or hinders longevity and cognitive resilience 

• How it can be stacked with supplements, fasting, or ketosis 

• What functional medicine says about chronic use, addiction, and withdrawal 

This is essential listening for anyone serious about biohacking, human performance, and longevity, and for those who want to understand how functional biology and mitochondrial science are redefining recovery, energy, and aging. 

Dave Asprey is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the father of biohacking. With over 1,000 interviews and 1 million monthly listeners, The Human Upgrade brings you the knowledge to take control of your biology, extend your longevity, and optimize every system in your body and mind. Each episode delivers cutting-edge insights in health, performance, neuroscience, supplements, nutrition, biohacking, emotional intelligence, and conscious living. 

New episodes are released every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday (BONUS). Dave asks the questions no one else will and gives you real tools to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient. 

Keywords: Nicotine microdosing, Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, Dopamine and motivation, Cognitive enhancement, Alzheimer’s prevention, Neuroinflammation, Mitochondrial function, TNF-alpha reduction, Vagus nerve activation, Longevity biohacking, Nicotine vs smoking, Nootropics, Attention and vigilance, Ketosis and metabolism, Functional medicine, Nicotine patches and gum, Addiction and tolerance, Receptor desensitization, Withdrawal protocols, Deep work performance  

Thank you to our sponsors! 

-TRU KAVA | Go to https://trukava.com/ and use code DAVE10 for 10% off. 

-HeartMath | Go to https://www.heartmath.com/dave to save 15% off. 

-Leela Quantum Tech | Check out all HEAL360 products and research and get 10% off at https://leelaq.com/DAVE. 

-Calroy | Head to https://calroy.com/dave for an exclusive discount. 

Resources:  

• Business of Biohacking | Register to attend October 20-23 in Austin, TX https://businessofbiohacking.com/ 

• Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com/discount/dave15 

• Dave Asprey’s BEYOND Conference: https://beyondconference.com 

• Dave Asprey’s New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated 

• Upgrade Collective: https://www.ourupgradecollective.com 

• Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com 

• 40 Years of Zen: https://40yearsofzen.com 

Timestamps: 

0:00 — Introduction 

1:27 — History & Background of Nicotine 

4:34 — How Nicotine Works 

15:12 — Benefits & Research 

16:43 — Risks & Who Should Avoid It 

21:39 — Delivery Methods & Dosing 

26:30 — Conclusion & Next Steps 

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