Data from adult smokers suggest that people with CYP2A6 gene variants that are associated with slow nicotine metabolism have higher levels of nicotine, smoke fewer cigarettes and are less likely to become addicted compared to those with normal metabolizer CYP2A6 genotypes (9, 14, 15). Conversely, it has been suggested that more rapid metabolism of nicotine leads to a greater consumption of cigarettes in order to maintain desired levels of nicotine in the body (13).
