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Nicotine (4 mg)

GlaxoSmithKline · FDA-approved active Small molecule ✓ Verified May 2026

Nicotine (4 mg) is a Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist Small molecule drug developed by GlaxoSmithKline. It is currently FDA-approved for Smoking cessation aid.

Nicotine binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain and peripheral nervous system, providing nicotine replacement to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms during smoking cessation.

Nicotine (4 mg) is a small molecule used in various interventions for conditions such as smoking cessation, ADHD, and tobacco use disorder, including self-help materials, nicotine patches, and smartphone-delivered automated treatment. It has been studied in clinical trials for its potential to aid in smoking cessation and management of other conditions.

At a glance

Generic nameNicotine (4 mg)
SponsorGlaxoSmithKline
Drug classNicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist
TargetNicotinic acetylcholine receptors
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaSmoking Cessation / Addiction Medicine
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Nicotine is an alkaloid that acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, mimicking the effects of acetylcholine. By delivering controlled doses of nicotine without the harmful combustion products of tobacco, it reduces the withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with smoking cessation, allowing patients to gradually reduce their dependence on nicotine.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about Nicotine (4 mg)

What is Nicotine (4 mg)?

Nicotine (4 mg) is a Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist drug developed by GlaxoSmithKline, indicated for Smoking cessation aid.

How does Nicotine (4 mg) work?

Nicotine binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain and peripheral nervous system, providing nicotine replacement to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms during smoking cessation.

What is Nicotine (4 mg) used for?

Nicotine (4 mg) is indicated for Smoking cessation aid.

Who makes Nicotine (4 mg)?

Nicotine (4 mg) is developed and marketed by GlaxoSmithKline (see full GlaxoSmithKline pipeline at /company/gsk).

What drug class is Nicotine (4 mg) in?

Nicotine (4 mg) belongs to the Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist class. See all Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist drugs at /class/nicotinic-acetylcholine-receptor-agonist.

What development phase is Nicotine (4 mg) in?

Nicotine (4 mg) is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Nicotine (4 mg)?

Common side effects of Nicotine (4 mg) include Mouth irritation, Hiccups, Dyspepsia, Nausea, Jaw soreness.

What does Nicotine (4 mg) target?

Nicotine (4 mg) targets Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and is a Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist.

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing