See Also: nicotine(dictionary)
nicotine(encyclopedia)
nicotine(medicine)
nicotine(dictionary)
Nicotine(health)
nicotine patch(dictionary)
Nicotine polacrilex(health)
nicotine stomatitis(medicine)
nicotine oxidase(medicine)
nicotine dehydrogenase(medicine)

nicotine (sh)




Principal alkaloid of tobacco, occurring throughout the plant but mostly in the leaves.

It is a heterocyclic compound, containing a pyridine ring; its chemical formula is C10H14N. Nicotine is the chief addictive ingredient (see drug addiction) in cigarettes and cigars and in snuff. It has a unique biphasic effect: Inhaled in short puffs it is a stimulant, but when inhaled slowly and deeply it can be a tranquilizer. In larger doses, nicotine is a highly toxic poison, used as an insecticide, fumigant, and vermifuge.