I know this may seem like a dumb question but does smoking "help" in anyway with alzheimer's. My father developed it at 57 and died at 66, my sister is now in the mid stages at the age of 51, and I dread everytime I forget one thing I'm next. I used to read as much as I could and came across an article about nicotene reciptors. I'm not a doctor, I was just wondering if there is a chance I could get it would it be increased by using Chantix or something similar that blocks the reciptors? I hate to say it but getting medical help around here is very hard. My doctor just laughed at me when I asked her. I would appreciate any feedback. I honestly have to say after watching my father and now my sister fade away in front of me, I would rather go from cancer than Alzheimer's. Bad I know.

You don't have to feel you are "bad" at all. I, too have watched my mother fade away and I'm still smoking and feel the same way - nothing is worse than AD in my mind. If you really want to quit smoking several people close to me have used Chantix and found it very easy to quit. They didn't stay on it long so don't see how it could do much damage in a couple of weeks. Good luck!

MBB, I would not be worried about using Chantix. Yes it does block receptors for nicotine, but these receptors on neuron cells are very specific for nicotine. Would it increase the chances of you developing Alzheimers, almost 100% no!!!
-Tobias
Biology major (Senior)

Thank you so much for replying. I know I need to quit and think I want to at this point. You have made it an easier. I won't be so afraid now. Thanks