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Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Spectral Confocal Imaging of Fluorescently tagged Nicotinic Receptors in Knock-in Mice with Chronic Nicotine Administration
Published on: February 10, 2012
Ritalin for nicotine withdrawal: Nesbitt's paradox revisited
M D Robinson1, G D Anastasio, J M Little
1Department of Family Practice, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte 28232, USA.
Abstract:
This was a unblinded clinical trial of the stimulant methylphenidate (Ritalin) for nicotine withdrawal. Nineteen nicotine-dependent smokers received oral methylphenidate (30 mg target daily dosage) for 5 days following abrupt cessation. Tobacco withdrawal, Spielberger state anxiety, blood pressure, and pulse were measured at baseline, then serially for 7 days. Tobacco withdrawal and state anxiety increased significantly, but 12 (71%) of the 17 smokers who completed the study rated withdrawal relief "very define" and 13 (76%) rated this quit attempt "much easier than other times." Methylphenidate neither increased blood pressure nor blocked cessation-related pulse decrease and appears safe for this indication. Twelve (63%) of the enrolled smokers were confirmed abstinent at day 5. Methylphenidate effect on nicotine withdrawal should be studied in a placebo-controlled clinical trial.
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