Nicabate is a line of different products which are designed to help patients quit smoking. This products also contain nicotine, which can help keep patients from going into nicotine withdrawal as a result of smoking cessation. These products, which are made by GlaxoSmithKline, are primarily sold in Australia, though similar products are available in the United States. Although nicotine supplements are generally safe, there are some side effects which can cause discomfort or medical problems associated with their use.
Gastrointestinal
Patients who take Nicabate may experience some upset of the gastrointestinal system, RxList explains. These side effects include nausea, heartburn and hiccups. In addition, nicotine lozenges or gum can irritate the lining of the mouth, resulting in mouth ulcers. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion and constipation may also occur, Drugs.com states. Other side effects include inflammation of the tongue and stomach, increased salivation, an unpleasant taste in the mouth and problems with the teeth.
Nervous System
Nicotine is able to stimulate the nervous system; consequently, taking products such as Nicabate, which contain nicotine, can also affect the nervous system. The most common neurological side effects which Nicabate can cause are a headache and dizziness, RxList states. Patients may also experience problems sleeping or have abnormal dreams, particularly if they take Nicabate shortly before going to bed. Other side effects include irritability, tremor and lightheadedness, Drugs.com reports.
Cardiovascular
Because nicotine stimulates the nervous system, it also causes stimulation of the cardiovascular system. This results in increases in both the patient's heart rate and blood pressure. The risks of taking nicotine supplements increases for patients who have coronary artery disease as significant alterations in the heart's rhythm can develop, Drugs.com explains; in addition, the nicotine may cause the coronary arteries to constrict.
Hematologic
Nicotine supplements may also cause platelets, which are small cells in the blood, to aggregate more quickly. This can cause patients to have a greater chance of developing blood clots, increasing the risk of such hypercoaguability disorders as stroke and deep vein thrombi.
Member Comments