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Nicotine polacrilex lozenge
Nicotine polacrilex lozenge delivers nicotine through the oral mucosa by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, providing nicotine replacement to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings during smoking cessation.
Nicotine polacrilex lozenge delivers nicotine through the oral mucosa by binding to a polacrylic acid resin, providing nicotine replacement to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings during smoking cessation. Used for Smoking cessation aid, Reduction of nicotine withdrawal symptoms.
At a glance
| Generic name | Nicotine polacrilex lozenge |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Nicorette polacrilex lozenges, GlaxoSmithKline, 2 mg and 4 mg |
| Sponsor | University of Maryland, Baltimore |
| Drug class | Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) |
| Target | Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Addiction Medicine / Smoking Cessation |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Nicotine acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system. The polacrilex formulation is an ion-exchange resin complex that slowly releases nicotine in the mouth, allowing transmucosal absorption. This sustained delivery helps maintain adequate nicotine levels to suppress withdrawal symptoms and reduce the reinforcing effects of smoking.
Approved indications
- Smoking cessation aid
- Reduction of nicotine withdrawal symptoms
Common side effects
- Mouth irritation
- Hiccups
- Nausea
- Jaw soreness
- Heartburn
Key clinical trials
- Partnering With Food Bank to Provide Tobacco Treatment to Underserved Smokers (NA)
- Smoking Cessation and Menstrual Cycle Phase (PHASE4)
- Cytisine vs Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NA)
- ACT Lung Health Intervention: Phase Two (NA)
- iCanQuit Smoking Cessation Among Hispanic Adults (PHASE3)
- Varenicline for Smoking Reduction in Veterans Not Ready To Quit (PHASE4)
- Auricular Stimulation for Nicotine Withdrawal in Psychiatric Inpatients (NA)
- E-Cigarettes for Harm Reduction in Smokers With Opioid Use Disorder (PHASE2)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |