Nicotine
What is Nicotine?
Nicotine is a highly addictive substance found in tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco products such as chewing tobacco or snuff (1). It is also available in nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products such as gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal sprays, which are used to help people quit smoking (2). Nicotine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, and it is the main reason why people become addicted to smoking (1).
Side Effects
Nicotine can cause various side effects, including:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Irritability and restlessness
- Anxiety and depression
- Tremors and seizures in high doses
Interactions
Nicotine may interact with certain medications, such as insulin, theophylline, and some antidepressants, potentially leading to adverse effects (1). It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before using nicotine products.
Time of Day and With or Without Food
The specific time of day to use nicotine products may vary depending on the individual and the product. Nicotine gum and lozenges are usually taken throughout the day, while nicotine patches are applied once a day and left on for 16-24 hours (2).
Human Studies
Nicotine has been extensively studied for its addictive properties and its effects on the body. Long-term nicotine use can lead to addiction, which is characterized by a strong craving for the drug, the need to use it regularly, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit (1). Nicotine has also been linked to various health problems, including heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory problems (1). However, nicotine replacement therapy products have been shown to be effective in helping people quit smoking and reducing the risk of smoking-related diseases (2).
Summary
To summarize, nicotine is a highly addictive substance found in tobacco products and is the main reason why people become addicted to smoking. It can cause various side effects and may interact with certain medications. The specific time of day to use nicotine products may vary depending on the individual and the product. Nicotine has been extensively studied for its addictive properties and its effects on the body, and nicotine replacement therapy products have been shown to be effective in helping people quit smoking and reducing the risk of smoking-related diseases.
Citations:
(1) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/240820
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4849128/
(3) https://www.gov.uk/government/news/four-in-10-smokers-incorrectly-think-nicotine-causes-cancer
(4) https://hints.cancer.gov/docs/Briefs/HINTS_Brief_37.pdf
(5) https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/12/6/e057027
(6) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niacin