cotiniinin

Cotininine is a major metabolite of nicotine, the primary psychoactive alkaloid found in tobacco. When nicotine is absorbed into the body, it is rapidly metabolized by enzymes, primarily cytochrome P450 2A6 (CYP2A6), in the liver. Cotinine is formed through the oxidation of nicotine. It is a stable compound and is often used as a biomarker to assess recent exposure to tobacco smoke, whether through active smoking or secondhand smoke. The concentration of cotinine in biological fluids like blood, urine, and saliva is directly proportional to the amount of nicotine a person has been exposed to. This makes cotinine measurement a reliable method for verifying smoking status in clinical studies, public health surveys, and for individuals attempting to quit smoking. The half-life of cotinine in the body is significantly longer than that of nicotine, typically ranging from 15 to 20 hours, allowing for detection of exposure over a period of days. While cotinine itself has some pharmacological activity, it is generally considered to be less potent and addictive than nicotine. Research has explored potential therapeutic applications for cotinine, such as in treating certain neurological conditions, but these are still largely investigational.