Nicotinell Fruit (Nicotine Polacrilex)

• Nicotinell Fruit, a nicotine replacement therapy, is used to support smoking cessation by delivering nicotine through the buccal mucosa.
• Smoking cessation: helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with quitting tobacco.
• Tobacco dependence: provides a controlled nicotine dose to aid transition away from cigarettes.
• Relapse prevention: supports maintenance of abstinence after quitting smoking.

• Nicotine polacrilex is a nicotine salt complex that releases nicotine slowly when placed against the buccal mucosa. The nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa into the bloodstream, where it acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system, partially stimulating these receptors and thereby diminishing the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings during smoking cessation.

Common Side Effects

• Mouth irritation or soreness at the site of placement.
• Hiccups or transient throat discomfort.
• Nausea or mild gastrointestinal upset.
• Increased salivation or a feeling of fullness.
• Dyspepsia or heartburn.
• Unpleasant taste.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reactions such as rash, pruritus, or angioedema.
• Oral ulceration or persistent lesions.
• Severe nausea or vomiting.
• Chest pain or palpitations.
• Dizziness or fainting episodes.
• Arrhythmias in susceptible individuals.

Before using Nicotinell Fruit, consider the following precautions:

• Assess nicotine dependence level: tailor duration of therapy accordingly.
• Cardiovascular risk: avoid or use with caution in patients with recent myocardial infarction or unstable angina.
• Hypertension: monitor blood pressure if the patient has uncontrolled hypertension.
• Pregnancy and lactation: do not use unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• Duration of use: do not exceed the recommended treatment period without medical guidance.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Nicotinell Fruit may interact with other substances that affect nicotine metabolism or cardiovascular function.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use of other nicotine replacement products (patches, gum, inhalers) – risk of nicotine overdose.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors – may increase nicotine-related side effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Caffeine‑containing products – may enhance stimulant effects such as jitteriness.
• Certain antidepressants (e.g., bupropion) – monitor for increased nervous system stimulation.
• Beta‑blockers – observe for possible changes in heart rate or blood pressure.