Nicotine
Information about Nicotine
Nicotine uses
Nicotine is used for quitting smoking.
How nicotine works
Nicotine works by binding to nicotine receptors in the brain during abstinence from smoking. This helps to reduce craving and withdrawal symptoms.
Common side effects of nicotine
Dizziness, Headache, Hiccup, Throat irritation, Palpitations, Mouth irritation, Gastrointestinal discomfort, Watery eyes, Atrial fibrillation, Erythema (skin redness), Urticaria, Allergic reaction
Available Medicine for Nicotine
Expert advice for Nicotine
- Nicotine helps you to quit smoking by reducing the craving for a cigarette and the irritable feeling that occurs when you stop smoking.
- In addition, counselling should be done to increase the chances of quitting smoking successfully.
- Quitting smoking can lower your chances of having lung disease, heart disease or getting certain types of cancer that are related to smoking.
- Do not smoke while using Nicotine as it can cause nicotine to build up to dangerous levels.
- Inform your doctor if you develop headache, nausea or other digestive problems that does not go away.
- Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble stopping Nicotine as it can be addictive.
Frequently asked questions for Nicotine
Nicotine
Q. How does Nicotine affect the body?
Nicotine gives the body a feeling which feels like a "kick". This occurs because Nicotine stimulates the adrenal glands resulting in an increase in levels of catecholamine hormones like adrenaline. The secretion of these hormones stimulates the body processes, makes breathing faster, and increases the heart rate and blood pressure. It also increases the level of sugar in the blood by decreasing insulin secretion and increasing the release of glucose from the liver. Nicotine also acts on the brain to release brain hormones which give a sensation of pleasure and motivation. It is because of these effects that people become addicted to Nicotine.
Q. Is Nicotine in itself bad for you?
Excess of any medicine is considered harmful. Nicotine when used in normal doses has similar effects as caffeine. Direct application of Nicotine can cause irritation and burning sensation in the mouth and throat. It can also cause increased salivation, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. High doses of Nicotine can lead to increased heart activity, tremors and breathing difficulty. Moreover, extremely high doses of Nicotine can lead to seizures and the person may collapse and or even end up in a coma. Therefore, consult your doctor before you start taking Nicotine and follow the instructions as advised.
Q. Are there any specific conditions where I should be cautious before taking Nicotine?
Nicotine should be used only when advised by the doctor. Patients with cardiac disorders, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, and liver or kidney problems should be cautious before taking this medicine. Therefore, inform your doctor if you ever had or have any such problem before starting your treatment with Nicotine.