Nicotine, an alkaloid present in various plant species including tobacco, holds dual characteristics, functioning as both a sedative and a stimulant. Being the primary psychoactive component in tobacco products, nicotine addiction has become a considerable burden on public health.
Breakthrough in Nicotine Addiction Treatment
A recent groundbreaking study aims to reshape the approach to nicotine addiction treatment. Researchers have introduced a novel method that utilizes Vitamin C and cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine, which promises a step forward from traditional Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).
Role of Cotinine in Nicotine Addiction
Current NRT is dependent on the additional intake of nicotine through patches or lozenges. The arduous process of quitting smoking stems from nicotine withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. The researchers are investigating cotinine, an oxidative metabolite of nicotine, as an alternative solution. Typically, 80% of nicotine morphs into cotinine in the body, with the rest expelled in urine. Cotinine has been linked to cancerous growths.
Utilization of Vitamin C in Nicotine Addiction Treatment
In this innovative research, Ascorbic acid, more commonly known as Vitamin C, was used to convert cotinine back into nicotine to curb nicotine urges. A dissolvable film containing Vitamin C was made available for smokers to use when the craving to smoke arises. The specified dosage of Ascorbic acid facilitates the conversion of cotinine into nicotine within the blood, without any side effects.
Future Considerations and Further Research
The converted nicotine may circulate to bring about Central Nervous System (CNS) effects, which can prove beneficial in treating nicotine withdrawal symptoms. The researchers acknowledge the requirement for additional studies on more significant samples to validate their findings.
Overview of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
NRT is a widespread therapeutic method used in combating nicotine addiction. It involves using products that deliver small doses of nicotine, without carrying the harmful toxins present in smoke. The therapy’s goal lies in managing nicotine cravings and alleviating withdrawal symptoms. NRT takes several forms – gums, transdermal patches, nasal sprays, oral inhalers, and tablets.
The Prevalent Tobacco Consumption in India
As per the Global Adult Tobacco Survey India 2016-17, around 267 million adults, accounting for 29% of the adult population in India, consume tobacco. Smokeless tobacco is the most common form of consumption, with products such as khaini, gutkha, and betel quid with tobacco being popular choices. Tobacco consumption is a significant risk factor for chronic diseases like cancer, lung disease, and cardiovascular diseases. It is responsible for nearly 1.35 million deaths annually in India, making it the second-largest consumer and producer of tobacco globally.
Government Interventions to Control Tobacco Consumption
The Indian government has initiated various policies and programs to combat the tobacco issue. The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), enacted in 2003, regulates the trade, commerce, production, supply, and distribution of tobacco products. The National Tobacco Control Program, launched in 2007-08, aims to spread awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco, reduce supply and production, and facilitate the COTPA 2003 provisions’ effective implementation. The program also provides support to individuals looking to quit tobacco use. The National Tobacco Quitline Services offers telephone-based aid for tobacco cessation.
These continued efforts towards managing and ultimately curbing nicotine addiction hold promises for a healthier future.
