NICOTINE

Nicotine is an alkaloid generally found in tobacco

leaves. It is also found in egg plants, tomatoes and
potatoes. Other alkaloids present along with nicotine
are nor- nicotine and nicotamine. It is nor nicotine
which is responsible for the aroma of tobacco smoke.
STRUCTURE OF NICOTINE
Molecular formula C
10
H
14
N
2

NICOTINE WAS FIRST ISOLATED IN 1828.

CHEMISTRY OF NICOTINE ;
Basic compound.
Water soluble
Lipophilic
A nicotine molecule contains
a pyridine nucleus in which
3
rd
position is attached to
the 2
nd
position of N- methyl
pyrrolidine nucleus.
Environments:
o No absorption in acidic environments
o Functions at blood pH=7.4(31%)
o Absorption occurs readily in basic environments

EFFECTS OF NICOTINE
POSITIVE NEGATIVE
Anxiolysis Gastrointestinal Distress
Cognitive Enhancement Hypothermia
Cerebro- vasodilation Emesis
Neuroprotection Hypertension
Analgesia Seizures
Anti-psychotic Respiratory Distress


MEDICINAL IMPORTANCE
TREATMENT OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS:
Researchers reviewed randomised controlled studies comparing
transdermal patches containing 15-20 mg of nicotine to placebo and
anti inflammatory medications with active mild to moderate
ulcerativ colitis. The improvement shown by nicotine was
significantly higher than those receiving no treatment.

TREATMENT OF PARKINSONS DISEASE:
Effective treatment with nicotine patches have been done since last 8
years without any adverse cardiovascular effects. Nicotine peppers
are effectively used for the treatment of parkinsons disease.


PROTECTING LUNG CANCER CELLS: