nicotines

Nicotines refers to nicotine, the principal alkaloid produced by tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum) and the compound most closely associated with tobacco dependence. Nicotine and related alkaloids occur in some other nightshade plants, but tobacco is the primary source of commercially available nicotine.

Chemically, nicotine has the formula C10H14N2 and consists of a pyridine ring linked to a pyrrolidine ring. It exists as two enantiomers, S-nicotine and R-nicotine, with the S form predominating in tobacco and displaying greater pharmacological activity.

Pharmacologically, nicotine is a cholinergic agonist that binds nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Activation of these receptors leads to the release of several neurotransmitters, including dopamine, which contributes to reinforcement and reward. Nicotine is rapidly absorbed through the lungs, mucous membranes, or skin, and has a half-life of about two hours in humans. Acute effects include increased alertness, elevated heart rate, and reduced appetite; chronic use can cause dependence and tolerance.

Uses and production: nicotine is used in nicotine replacement therapy products such as patches, gums, lozenges, and inhalers to aid smoking cessation. It has also been used historically as an insecticide. In consumer products, nicotine is delivered through tobacco products and electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes).

Safety: nicotine is toxic in high doses and can be dangerous to children and unauthorised ingestions. Most health harms from tobacco arise from combustion products rather than nicotine alone. When used as directed in cessation aids, nicotine-containing products have a comparatively favorable safety profile and support strategies to reduce tobacco-related health risks.