Nicotine (Nicotine)
Overview of Nicotine
Nicotine is a CNS stimulant and one of the few naturaly occuring liquid alkaloid, obtained from the tobacco plant (Nicotiana spp.). it's pharmacological actions are complex and include effects on both the central and peripheral nervous system. Nicotine is classified as a stimulant of autonomic ganglia, although it possesses both stimulant and depressant actions. Nicotine is the active ingredient and addictive component in tobacco smoke. Addiction is physiological and psycological and many smokers find it difficult to stop, even when they have illnesses which are made worse by smoking. It may be administered during the withdrawal period in the form of transdermal patches or chewing gum. its inherent toxicity has been used in the control of insects.
Indication of Nicotine
Nicotine is primarily indicated in conditions like Smoking cessation, Tobacco withdrawal.
Contraindication of Nicotine
Nicotine is contraindicated in conditions like Peptic ulcer,Gastritis.
Side Effects of Nicotine
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Nicotine, which give rise to further complications include Hyperglycemia, Increased blood lactate, Hypoinsulinemia, Hyperglycemia.,Nicotine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Cardiac arrhythmias. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Nicotine therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Nicotine include Epileptic seizures, Sweating, Respiratory arrest, Tremor, Sweating, Hyperpnea, Circulatory collapse, Muscular spasm.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Nicotine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Vomiting, Palpitation, Abdominal pain, SweatingX, Hypotension, Tremor, Faintness, Salivation, Paresthesias, Pallor, Coolness of extremities, faintness, Hypotension.
Precautions of Nicotine
Nicotine should be used with caution in patients with history of heart disease, high blood pressure, cerebrovascular disease, endocrine disorders including hyperthyroidism and insulin-dependent diabetes, peptic ulcer, impaired liver or kidney function. Skin patches should not be used on broken skin. This is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation.