The Effect of Low Dose Nicotine on Working Memory and Positive Emotion in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment

Abstract

Background The persons with Mild Cognitive Impairment are more likely to develop dementia. This condition can lead to permanent memory impairment and dementia if left untreated. So far, several non-pharmacological treatments have been used to prevent the progression of this disorder, but their effectiveness needs to be further investigated. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of low dose nicotine on working memory and positive emotion in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Methods This is a quasi-experimental study with a control group. Fifty male patients referred to neurology clinics in Tabriz city were selected by convenience sampling method and randomly assigned to the control and experimental groups. Data collection tools included Wechsler Memory Scale (WISC-IV) and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Data were analyzed using SPSS software ver. 24. Results The findings indicated that the mean scores of working memory and positive emotion in experimental group were not statistically significantly different from the control group before intervention (P > 0.05). But after intervention the mean scores of working memory and positive emotion in experimental group were statistically significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion The study findings indicated that low dose nicotine enhances working memory and increases positive emotions in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Therefore, the findings of this study can be used in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with mild cognitive disorders.