Medicosnext
Smokers in Spain have a new option for quitting smoking: cytisine. Cytisine, an alkaloid from the
plant Cytisus laburnum (golden rain), has been shown to be effective in helping smokers quit. It is
similar to nicotine, but it does not bind to nicotine receptors as strongly. This means that cytisine
can help to reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms without causing the same
negative effects as nicotine.
Cytisine has been available in Eastern Europe for many years, but it was only recently approved
for use in the European Union. Spain is the first country in the EU to implement cytisine as a
smoking cessation treatment. Cytisine is typically taken in tablet or capsule form for 12 weeks.
The dose is gradually reduced over time as the smoker becomes less dependent on nicotine.
Cytisine can be used on its own or in combination with other smoking cessation treatments, such
as nicotine replacement therapy or counseling.
Studies have shown that cytisine is more effective than nicotine replacement therapy in helping
smokers quit. In one study, cytisine was shown to be twice as effective as nicotine patches in
helping smokers quit at six months. Cytisine is also less expensive than nicotine replacement
therapy. Cytisine offers a safe and effective way to reduce nicotine dependence and withdrawal
symptoms. It is also a more affordable option than nicotine replacement therapy.
How does Cytisine work?
It is a nicotine analogue which acts as a partial nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist. It has a
high affinity for the alpha-4 beta-2 receptor subtype, which is thought to be the main receptor
that mediates the central effects of nicotine. This helps to reduce nicotine cravings and
withdrawal symptoms. Cytisine also helps to increase the production of dopamine, a
neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. This can help to make smoking
less enjoyable and make it easier to quit.
Cytisine Benefits
Cytisine has a number of benefits over other smoking cessation treatments, including:
It is more effective than nicotine replacement therapy.
It is less expensive than nicotine replacement therapy.
It is safe and well-tolerated.
It does not cause the same negative effects as nicotine.
Cytisine Side Effects
Cytisine can cause some side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches.
However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.
Conclusion
Cytisine has been shown to be a safe and effective smoking cessation treatment, and it is more
affordable than nicotine replacement therapy. It is likely that other countries will follow Spain's
lead and make cytisine available to their citizens if they have not already done so.
