Med. praxi. 2026;23(2):85-89 | DOI: 10.36290/med.2026.018

The role of cytisinicline in the treatment of nicotine dependence

doc. MUDr. Jiří Slíva, Ph.D., MBA
Ústav farmakologie, 3. LF UK, Praha

Cytisinicline is a plant‑derived alkaloid with a long history of pharmacological use, primarily acting through modulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Initially employed as a respiratory stimulant, it has been used since the mid‑20th century for the treatment of tobacco dependence, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe. As a partial agonist of α4β2 and α6β2 nicotinic receptors, cytisinicline reduces withdrawal symptoms while attenuating the reinforcing effects of inhaled nicotine. Its clinical efficacy in smoking cessation has been demonstrated in multiple randomized controlled trials and meta‑analyses, showing non‑inferiority or superiority to nicotine replacement therapy and comparable efficacy to varenicline with a more favorable safety profile. Cytisinicline therefore represents an effective, safe, and cost‑efficient pharmacological option for smoking cessation when integrated into comprehensive behavioral support strategies.

Keywords: nicotine, dependence, smoking, cytisine, nicotinic receptors, cytisinicline.

Accepted: April 23, 2026; Published: April 28, 2026  Show citation

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Slíva J. The role of cytisinicline in the treatment of nicotine dependence. Med. praxi. 2026;23(2):85-89. doi: 10.36290/med.2026.018.
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