Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Vagus Nerve Stimulation As an Adjunctive Neurostimulation Tool in Treatment-resistant Depression
Published on: January 7, 2019
Reduced affective symptoms during tobacco dependence treatment with varenicline
Martin Grosshans1, Jochen Mutschler, Derik Hermann
1Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.
Background:
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist varenicline has been shown to be effective in the treatment of tobacco dependence, but has been reported to induce exacerbations of psychiatric symptoms in subjects with pre-existing psychiatric disorders.
Case Description:
We report a tobacco-dependent patient who developed depression and suicidal tendencies during several cessation attempts, but was finally able to stay nicotine-abstinent by taking varenicline.
Conclusion:
In this case varenicline did not lead to exacerbation but appeared to improve the affective symptoms.
Related Concept Videos
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating sympathetic or...
Drug Dependence
Antidepressant Drugs: MAOIs and Other Agents
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
