Nicotine

Common Names: Pituri, Aboriginal, Australians, At, After

Psychoactive Effects

Positive Effects

  • Euphoria

Neutral Effects

  • Increased alertness
  • Enhanced focus
  • Reduced anxiety
  • Increased heart rate
  • Pupil dilation
  • Dry mouth

Negative Effects

  • Anxiety

Dosage Guidelines

Route Threshold Light Common Strong Heavy
Smoked 0.5-1 mg 1-3 mg 3-6 mg 6-10 mg 10+ mg

Duration

Phase Duration
Onset Immediate (smoked)
Peak 5-10 minutes
Total 30-60 minutes
After effects 1-2 hours

Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action: Nicotine acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), particularly α4β2 and α7 subtypes, increasing dopamine, norepinephrine, and acetylcholine release.

Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver primarily by CYP2A6 enzyme. Major metabolite is cotinine.

Half-life: Approximately 2 hours, with effects typically lasting 30-60 minutes.

Bioavailability: ~90% when smoked, ~30% when taken orally due to first-pass metabolism.

Risks and Harm Reduction

DependenceToxicityWithdrawalAddictionOverdose

⚠️ Important: Always practice harm reduction. Start with low doses, test your substances, and ensure a safe set and setting. Never use alone.

Legal Status

Disclaimer: Legal status varies by jurisdiction and may change. This information is for educational purposes only.

References

  • • Benowitz, N. L. (2009). Pharmacology of nicotine: addiction, smoking-induced disease, and therapeutics. Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 49, 57-71.
  • • Dani, J. A., & De Biasi, M. (2001). Cellular mechanisms of nicotine addiction. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 70(4), 439-446.
  • • Information compiled from PsychonautWiki