nicotine
Last reviewed 01/2018
Nicotine is an alkaloid with the formula C10 H14 N2, normally found in tobacco.
In addition to its addictive properties it is also used as an insecticide and as a parasitide in vetinary medicine.
Nicotine causes various pharmalogical effects including:
- a rise in blood pressure
- tachycardia
- increased stickiness of platelets
Subjective effects include:
- increased alertness
- increased calmness
- relief of craving
Ref: Update (21/5/97), 680-90.