Nicotinell Lakrits (Nicotine Polacrilex)

Nicotinell Lakrits, a nicotine replacement therapy, is used in the management of nicotine dependence during smoking cessation.

• Smoking cessation: assists adult smokers in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms when quitting tobacco.
• Tobacco dependence: provides a controlled nicotine dose to replace cigarettes and support gradual reduction.
• Relapse prevention: helps maintain abstinence by delivering nicotine without the harmful smoke constituents.

• Nicotine Polacrilex is a resin‑bound nicotine complex that releases nicotine slowly when placed in the buccal cavity. The nicotine is absorbed through the oral mucosa into the bloodstream, where it binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system, partially stimulating the same pathways activated by cigarette smoke and thereby diminishing withdrawal and craving intensity.

Nicotinell Lakrits may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Mouth irritation: mild soreness or tingling in the oral cavity.
• Hiccups: transient episodes after placement.
• Nausea: occasional feeling of queasiness.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness: brief light‑headedness.
• Increased salivation: excess saliva production.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction: signs include rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Chest pain or palpitations: may indicate cardiovascular stress.
• Arrhythmia or hypertension: abnormal heart rhythm or elevated blood pressure.
• Oral ulceration: painful sores in the mouth.
• Persistent vomiting: prolonged nausea and vomiting.

Before using Nicotinell Lakrits, consider the following precautions.

• Assess nicotine dependence level: evaluate the patient’s smoking history before initiating therapy.
• Avoid use in children and adolescents: product is not indicated for persons under 18 years.
• Do not use if allergic to nicotine or excipients: discontinue immediately if hypersensitivity occurs.
• Monitor cardiovascular status: patients with recent heart attack or uncontrolled hypertension should use under medical supervision.
• Limit duration of use: typically not exceeding 12 weeks without professional review.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in original packaging, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Nicotinell Lakrits can interact with other medicines; review the following.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): may increase risk of hypertensive crisis.
• Other nicotine replacement products: risk of nicotine overdose.
• CYP2A6 inhibitors (e.g., methoxsalen): may increase nicotine levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs): may augment nicotine’s effect on mood; monitor for side effects.
• Beta‑blockers: nicotine may reduce their efficacy; observe blood pressure.
• Theophylline: nicotine may increase metabolism, requiring dose adjustment if needed.