Evidence supporting the use of: Cytisine
For the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Cytisine is an alkaloid found primarily in plants such as Laburnum anagyroides (Golden Rain) and has been traditionally used in Eastern Europe as an aid to smoking cessation. Its use to support the "Specific Neurotransmitters" body system is scientifically justified, particularly in the context of nicotine addiction and dopaminergic neurotransmission. Cytisine acts as a partial agonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), specifically the α4β2 subtype, which are key receptors involved in the neural pathways of addiction and reward. By binding to these receptors, cytisine reduces the rewarding effects of nicotine and alleviates withdrawal symptoms, thereby modulating neurotransmitter activity, especially dopamine, in the brain. Clinical trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that cytisine is effective in supporting smoking cessation, with efficacy comparable to or greater than other pharmacological options like varenicline and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). For example, a 2014 New England Journal of Medicine study (West et al.) found that cytisine was significantly more effective than placebo for smoking cessation. While its primary indication is for nicotine addiction, the mechanism clearly involves modulation of neurotransmitter systems, particularly those related to acetylcholine and dopamine. Therefore, its use to support the "Specific Neurotransmitters" system is supported by substantial scientific evidence, reflecting its pharmacological action on neurotransmitter pathways.

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Other body systems supported by cytisine

Acetylcholine
Brain
Dopamine
Specific Neurotransmitters

Products containing cytisine

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