Evidence supporting the use of: Cytisine
For the health condition: Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Cytisine is supported by strong scientific evidence for its use in treating tobacco addiction. Cytisine is a plant-based alkaloid that acts as a partial agonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, particularly the same receptor subtype targeted by nicotine. This mechanism helps reduce the pleasurable effects of nicotine and alleviates withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for users to quit smoking or chewing tobacco.

Multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have demonstrated that cytisine is effective for smoking cessation. A landmark double-blind RCT published in the New England Journal of Medicine (West et al., 2011) found cytisine to be significantly more effective than placebo for long-term abstinence rates. Other studies have shown its efficacy to be comparable to varenicline (Chantix), another partial agonist used for smoking cessation, but with fewer side effects and at a much lower cost.

Cytisine has been used in Eastern Europe for decades and is included as a smoking cessation aid in several countries. Its effectiveness, safety profile, and affordability have led to growing interest worldwide. The World Health Organization also recognizes cytisine as a potential tool for tobacco dependence treatment, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

In summary, cytisine’s use is scientifically validated and is supported by high-quality clinical evidence as an aid for tobacco addiction treatment.

More about Cytisine
More about Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)

Other health conditions supported by Cytisine

Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)

Products containing Cytisine

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.