Nicorette Z Okusom Gozdnih Sadežev (Nicotine)

Nicotine replacement therapy is used to support individuals who want to stop smoking by alleviating nicotine withdrawal.

• Smoking cessation: helps adult smokers reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while quitting tobacco.
• Nicotine dependence: provides a controlled nicotine dose to replace cigarettes and facilitate gradual reduction.
• Relapse prevention: assists former smokers in maintaining abstinence by managing occasional urges.

• Nicotine acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system, stimulating dopamine release and mimicking the pharmacologic effects of tobacco‑derived nicotine. This receptor activation reduces the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing a gradual tapering of nicotine exposure while supporting smoking cessation efforts.

Nicotine replacement therapy may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Mouth irritation or soreness: discomfort at the site of lozenge placement.
• Nausea or upset stomach: occasional gastrointestinal upset after use.
• Headache or dizziness: mild central nervous system effects.
• Increased salivation: excess saliva production during oromucosal administration.
• Hiccups: brief episodes following lozenge use.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Chest pain or palpitations: may indicate cardiovascular stress.
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Hypertension or elevated blood pressure: significant rise requiring medical attention.
• Arrhythmia: irregular heart rhythm in susceptible individuals.
• Persistent vomiting: may lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

When considering nicotine replacement therapy, several safety measures should be observed.

• Cardiovascular assessment: evaluate heart disease history before initiating therapy.
• Recent myocardial infarction: avoid use during the acute recovery phase.
• Allergy screening: do not use if hypersensitivity to nicotine or formulation excipients is known.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Storage: Store at room temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Nicotine may interact with other medicines, altering their effects or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): risk of hypertensive crisis.
• Insulin or oral hypoglycemics: nicotine can affect glucose control, requiring dose adjustment.
• Antidepressants (especially MAOIs): may increase cardiovascular side effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Caffeine: combined stimulant effect may increase nervousness or tachycardia.
• Theophylline: nicotine may raise plasma concentrations, necessitating monitoring.
• Warfarin: nicotine can influence clotting parameters, requiring INR checks.