Action and mechanism
Anti-smoking , ganglioplegic . Nicotine is an agonist of nicotinic cholinergic receptors, located primarily in the autonomic ganglia, adrenal medulla, neuromuscular junction, and central nervous system. The effects of nicotine on the body are numerous and varied, and depend on the administered dose and the individual's autonomic tone. Nicotine is also responsible for tobacco dependence in smokers, possibly through two mechanisms. At low doses, it appears to have a stimulating effect on the cortex via the locus coeruleus, increasing cognitive function and alertness. At higher doses, it seems to produce a reward effect originating in the limbic system. Abrupt cessation of tobacco use after a prolonged period leads to a characteristic withdrawal syndrome, which includes symptoms such as dysphoria, insomnia, irritability, anger, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, agitation, bradycardia, and increased appetite with weight gain. Nicotine cravings are also common. Administering nicotine through patches or gum produces effects similar to those obtained from tobacco, providing those wishing to quit smoking with enough nicotine to reduce withdrawal symptoms. The nicotine dose is gradually reduced until the body can function without it. Seniors no specific pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted in the elderly, but adverse effects and relapse rates in patients over 60 years of age are similar to those in younger patients. However, heart disease is more com...
Action and mechanism
Anti-smoking , ganglioplegic . Nicotine is an agonist of nicotinic cholinergic receptors, located primarily in the autonomic ganglia, adrenal medulla, neuromuscular junction,
