Cytisine 1.5mg Tablets

Cytisine is a plant-based smoking cessation medication derived from the seeds of the golden rain tree (Cytisus laburnum). It works as a partial agonist at alpha-4 beta-2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors — the same mechanism as Champix (varenicline). Cytisine reduces nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also reducing the rewarding effect of smoking. It has been used for smoking cessation in Eastern Europe for over 50 years and is now available through the NHS. It approximately doubles quit rates compared to placebo.

Cytisine follows a 25-day tapering course: Days 1–3: 1 tablet (1.5 mg) every 2 hours while awake (6 tablets daily). Days 4–12: 1 tablet every 2.5 hours (5 tablets daily). Days 13–16: 1 tablet every 3 hours (4 tablets daily). Days 17–20: 1 tablet every 5 hours (3 tablets daily). Days 21–25: 1–2 tablets daily. Your quit date should fall between days 3–5 of treatment. The course is significantly shorter than Champix (25 days vs 12 weeks).

Yes, cytisine 1.5 mg tablets are available through NHS smoking cessation services, including community pharmacy. It is often a preferred option due to its effectiveness, short treatment course, and lower cost compared to varenicline. Your pharmacist can assess your suitability and supply cytisine as part of a supported quit attempt through the NHS Quit Smoking service.

Cytisine and Champix (varenicline) share the same mechanism of action as partial nicotinic receptor agonists, and clinical evidence suggests similar quit rates. The key differences: cytisine has a much shorter course (25 days vs 12 weeks), is plant-derived, is less expensive, and has been used for over 50 years. Champix may have slightly more robust clinical trial data. With the supply issues affecting Champix, cytisine has become an important alternative. Side effects are comparable, though cytisine may cause slightly less nausea.

Common side effects include nausea, dyspepsia (indigestion), dry mouth, and headache. Gastrointestinal symptoms are the most frequently reported. Insomnia and taste disturbance may also occur. Side effects are generally mild and improve as the dose tapers. Taking cytisine after food may reduce nausea. Overall, cytisine has a well-established safety profile from decades of use.

Cytisine should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease (unstable angina, recent heart attack, uncontrolled hypertension), as it has mild sympathomimetic effects. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Caution is advised in patients with severe kidney or liver impairment. Tell your pharmacist about all your medical conditions before starting treatment.