Nicotine

Information About Nicotine

Uses of Nicotine

Nicotine is commonly used in the treatment of smoking addiction and helps in quitting smoking.

How Nicotine Works

Nicotine at low doses causes an initial stimulation of autonomic ganglia, adrenal medulla, neuromuscular junction, and brain. High doses of nicotine will produce initial ganglionic stimulation followed by inhibition of neurotransmission, and subsequently persistent depression of receptor activity.

Side Effects of Nicotine

Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Nausea, Vomiting, Dizziness, Headache, Palpitation, Anxiety, Irritability, Lacrimation, Salivation, Runny nose, Insomnia

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Nicotine Related Warnings

Alcohol Safe

It is safe to consume alcohol while on nicotine. However, the combination of both may cause an increase in dopamine release which is responsible to cause euphoria.

Pregnancy Not Safe

It is recommended that pregnant women should stop smoking without requiring nicotine replacement therapy. Human studies have reported that there is a risk to the fetus, but potential benefits may allow the usage of Nicotine in pregnancy. This is because the fetus's risk could be lower than the risk caused by cigarette smoking as there is lower maximal plasma nicotine concentration. In the third trimester, nicotine can cause changes in fetal heart rate and this could affect the fetus close to delivery.

Lactation Limited Data

Nicotine can be found in the breast milk of mothers on treatment therefore, it should be avoided during breastfeeding. There is limited data on the usage of nicotine while breastfeeding. If nicotine replacement therapy is essential, it should be taken just after breastfeeding and not two hours before breastfeeding.

Driving Generally Safe

Nicotine usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Kidney Use With Care

Nicotine should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment as the clearance of nicotine or its metabolites may be decreased and therefore, there is an increased risk of side effects.

Liver Limited Data

Nicotine should be used with caution in patients with moderate to severe liver impairment as the clearance of nicotine or its metabolites may be decreased. As a result, there is an increased risk of side effects.