Cytisine Tablets
Cytisine tablets contain 1.5mg of the active ingredient cytisine, a plant-based alkaloid that helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms in people trying to quit smoking. This prescription based smoking cessation medication works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as nicotine, providing a similar but milder effect that gradually weans you off nicotine dependence. A complete treatment course lasts 25 days with a structured dosing schedule to maximise your chances of successfully quitting smoking.
You must complete a short online consultation so that our prescriber can ensure that the treatment is suitable for you.
| Product Name: | Cytisine Tablets |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer: | Affofarm Farmacja Polska Sp. z o.o. |
| Active Ingredient: | Cytisine |
| Administration: | Oral |
| Presentation: | Round, biconvex, white tablets |
| Available Strengths: | 1.5mg only |
| Prescription Required: | Yes |
| Dosage: | Variable by treatment day |
| Suitable for pregnancy? | No |
| Use with alcohol: | Consult your doctor |
| Strength | Package Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5mg | 100 tablets (25-day course) | £157.99 | |
| Cytisine is a plant-based smoking cessation treatment that helps reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It belongs to the drug class nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonists. | |||
| This treatment requires an online consultation for review by our medical team. The decision to supply the specific treatment and quantity requested will be based on whether our medical team are satisfied that it will be safe, appropriate, and effective. | |||
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Table of Contents
- What is Cytisine?
- What is Cytisine Used For?
- Before Using Cytisine
- Cytisine Contraindications
- Special Population Considerations
- Cytisine and Other Medicines
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Driving & Machine Operation
- Cytisine Ingredients
- How to Use Cytisine
- Cytisine Dosage Guidelines
- Administration Instructions
- Missed Dose Management
- Overdose Information
- Cytisine Side Effects
- How to Store Cytisine
- Cytisine Pack Information
- Cytisine FAQs
What is Cytisine?
Cytisine is the active ingredient in Cytisine tablets, a plant-based alkaloid derived from the laburnum tree (Golden Rain acacia). It belongs to a class of medications known as nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonists.
Mechanism of Action
Cytisine works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as nicotine, providing a similar but milder effect. Think of it like a "key" that fits into the same "lock" as nicotine but doesn't open it completely. This action helps:
- Reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Decrease the pleasurable effects of smoking if you do smoke during treatment
- Gradually wean your brain off nicotine dependence
By partially activating nicotine receptors, cytisine helps manage withdrawal symptoms while making smoking less satisfying, supporting your journey to becoming smoke-free.
What is Cytisine Used For?
Cytisine is indicated for smoking cessation and reduction of nicotine cravings in smokers who are willing to stop smoking. The primary treatment goal is permanent cessation of nicotine-containing product use.
Target Patient Population
Cytisine is suitable for adult smokers (18 years and older) who:
- Are motivated to quit smoking
- Want a structured programme to support smoking cessation
- Prefer a plant-based treatment approach
- Have no contraindications to cytisine use
Important Safety Information
Do not continue smoking during cytisine treatment as this may increase the risk of adverse effects. Smoking should be stopped completely by the 5th day of treatment at the latest.
Before Using Cytisine
Before starting cytisine treatment, discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have any of the following conditions:
Medical History Assessment
- Heart conditions (angina, arrhythmias, heart failure, recent heart attack)
- High blood pressure
- Stomach or digestive issues (ulcers, reflux)
- Thyroid problems
- Diabetes
- Kidney or liver disease
- Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, schizophrenia)
- Allergies to any medications
Required Evaluation
Your healthcare provider should assess:
- Your motivation and readiness to quit smoking
- Your current smoking patterns and nicotine dependence level
- Any contraindications or precautions for cytisine use
- Potential interactions with other medications you're taking
Cytisine Contraindications
Absolute Contraindications (Do Not Use)
- Allergy to cytisine or any tablet ingredients
- Unstable angina
- Recent myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Clinically significant cardiac arrhythmias
- Recent stroke
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Conditions Requiring Caution
Use with caution and medical supervision if you have:
- Ischemic heart disease
- Heart failure
- Hypertension
- Pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumour)
- Atherosclerosis or peripheral vascular disease
- Gastric or duodenal ulcer
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes
- Schizophrenia
- Kidney or liver impairment
Special Population Considerations
Elderly Patients (Over 65)
Due to limited clinical experience, cytisine is not recommended for use in patients over 65 years of age.
Children and Adolescents
Cytisine is not recommended for persons under 18 years of age due to limited experience in this population.
Patients with Kidney or Liver Impairment
There is no clinical experience with cytisine in patients with kidney or liver impairment. Therefore, the medicine is not recommended for use in these patients.
Cytisine and Other Medicines
Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
Medicines to Use With Caution
Stopping smoking (with or without cytisine) may require dose adjustments for:
- Theophylline (asthma treatment)
- Tacrine (Alzheimer's disease)
- Clozapine (schizophrenia)
- Ropinirole (Parkinson's disease)
Contraindicated Combination
Do not take cytisine with anti-tuberculosis drugs.
Hormonal Contraceptives
It is currently unknown whether cytisine may reduce the effectiveness of systemically acting hormonal contraceptives. If you use these contraceptives, add a barrier method (e.g., condoms) as a precaution.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Contraindication Warning
Cytisine is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, do not use this medication.
If you are a woman of childbearing potential, you must use effective contraception while taking cytisine. Discuss appropriate contraceptive methods with your doctor.
Driving & Machine Operation
Cytisine has no known influence on the ability to drive and use machines. However, some people may experience side effects such as dizziness, which could affect these activities. If you experience any symptoms that might impair your alertness, avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel normal again.
Cytisine Ingredients
Active Ingredient
- Cytisine 1.5mg per tablet
Other Ingredients (Excipients)
- Mannitol (bulking agent)
- Microcrystalline cellulose (binder)
- Magnesium stearate (lubricant)
- Glycerol dibelhenate (emulsifier)
- Hypromellose (coating agent)
If you have known allergies to any of these ingredients, do not use this medicine.
How to Use Cytisine
Important Usage Instructions
You should stop smoking completely by the 5th day of treatment at the latest. Continuing to smoke during treatment may increase adverse effects.
- Take cytisine tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor
- Swallow the tablet whole with a suitable amount of water
- Follow the structured 25-day dosing schedule
- Set a quit date (stop smoking completely by day 5)
- If treatment fails, you may retry after 2-3 months
Cytisine Dosage Guidelines
The standard treatment course is 25 days using the following dosing schedule:
| Days of Treatment | Recommended Dosing | Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1-3 | 1 tablet every 2 hours | 6 tablets |
| Days 4-12 | 1 tablet every 2.5 hours | 5 tablets |
| Days 13-16 | 1 tablet every 3 hours | 4 tablets |
| Days 17-20 | 1 tablet every 5 hours | 3 tablets |
| Days 21-25 | 1-2 tablets per day | 2 tablets |
One package of cytisine (100 tablets) is sufficient for a complete 25-day therapy.
Administration Instructions
- Wash your hands before handling the tablets
- Take the tablet with a full glass of water
- Do not crush or chew the tablets
- Follow the timing schedule carefully
- If you have difficulty remembering doses, set alarms or use a medication tracker app
- Continue the full 25-day course even if you've stopped smoking earlier
Missed Dose Management
If you forget to take a dose of cytisine:
- Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose
- Continue with your next scheduled dose at the regular time
- Try to maintain the dosing schedule as closely as possible
If you miss multiple doses or are unsure what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Overdose Information
Symptoms of cytisine overdose resemble nicotine intoxication and may include:
- Malaise (general feeling of discomfort)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Breathing problems
- Blurred vision
- Convulsions
Emergency Instructions
If you suspect an overdose or experience any severe symptoms:
- Stop taking cytisine immediately
- Contact your doctor or pharmacist right away
- In case of emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999
Cytisine Side Effects
Like all medicines, cytisine can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Many side effects occur at the beginning of therapy and resolve as treatment continues. Some symptoms may also be related to nicotine withdrawal rather than the medication itself.
Very Common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)
- Change in appetite (mainly increase)
- Weight gain
- Dizziness
- Irritability, mood changes, anxiety
- Increased blood pressure (hypertension)
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Sleep disorders (insomnia, drowsiness, lethargy, abnormal dreams, nightmares)
- Headaches
- Increased heart rate
- Nausea
- Changes in taste
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain (especially upper abdomen)
- Muscle pain
Common (may affect 1 to 10 in 100 people)
- Difficulty in concentration
- Slow heart rate
- Abdominal distension
- Burning tongue
- Malaise
Uncommon (affects 1 to 10 in 1,000 people)
- Feeling of heaviness in the head
- Decreased libido
- Tearing
- Dyspnea (breathing difficulties)
- Increased sputum
- Excessive salivation
- Sweating
- Decreased skin elasticity
- Tiredness
- Increase in serum transaminase levels
Reporting Side Effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed here. You can also report side effects directly via the UK Yellow Card Scheme:
Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.
How to Store Cytisine
- Keep out of sight and reach of children
- Store below 25°C
- Keep in the original package to protect from moisture and light
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the package
- Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste
- Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines you no longer use
Cytisine Pack Information
- Tablet description: Round, biconvex, white tablet with diameter 6mm
- Pack contents: 100 tablets (complete 25-day course)
- Packaging: PVC/PCTFE/Aluminium or PVC/PE/PVDC/Aluminium blisters in cardboard box
- Marketing Authorisation Holder: Bonteque Consulting Ltd, London, United Kingdom
- Manufacturer: Affofarm Farmacja Polska Sp. z o.o., Poland
- UK Distributor: Consilient Health Ltd, Richmond upon Thames, UK
Where Can I Buy Cytisine Online in the UK
Secure Cytisine Prescription & Next-Day Delivery Service
Order Cytisine with confidence through our UK-registered medical prescribers, who review all requests within 24 hours. We guarantee same-day prescription approval for eligible patients and dispatch orders placed before 3pm for next-day tracked delivery.
Our Cytisine service combines competitive pricing with strict adherence to MHRA safety standards, ensuring your medication is dispensed through GPhC-registered pharmacies. Every purchase includes discreet packaging and a GDPR-compliant consultation process.
Our clinical team ensures:
- Comprehensive smoking history review
- Medical contraindication assessment
- Drug interaction checks
- Personalised dosing guidance
Always consult your GP before starting smoking cessation treatment. Not recommended for children under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or patients over 65 years.
Cytisine Tablets FAQs
How does cytisine compare to other smoking cessation treatments?
Cytisine works similarly to varenicline (Champix) as both are partial nicotinic receptor agonists. However, cytisine is plant-based and has been used for decades in Eastern Europe. Clinical studies show it can be effective for smoking cessation, though direct comparisons with other treatments vary.
When should I stop smoking when using cytisine?
You should aim to stop smoking completely by the 5th day of treatment at the latest. Continuing to smoke while taking cytisine may increase side effects.
Can I drink alcohol while taking cytisine?
There's no specific interaction mentioned, but alcohol can lower willpower and increase smoking cravings. It's generally advisable to limit alcohol, especially in the early stages of quitting smoking.
What if I don't stop smoking by day 5?
If you're unable to stop smoking by day 5, you should discontinue treatment. You can try again after 2-3 months. Consider discussing additional support options with your healthcare provider.
Can I use cytisine if I use other nicotine products like patches or gum?
No, you should not use other nicotine replacement therapies while taking cytisine as this may increase the risk of side effects from too much nicotine receptor stimulation.
How long does a course of cytisine treatment last?
A complete treatment course is 25 days, using 100 tablets according to the structured dosing schedule that gradually reduces frequency.
What should I do if I experience severe side effects?
Stop taking cytisine and contact your doctor immediately. For emergency symptoms like breathing difficulties, chest pain, or severe allergic reactions, seek immediate medical attention.
Can I get cytisine on the NHS?
Cytisine is not currently widely available on the NHS. It is primarily available through private prescription services like Chemist Doctor.
How successful is cytisine for quitting smoking?
Clinical studies show cytisine can significantly increase smoking cessation rates compared to placebo. Success rates vary by individual commitment and additional support used alongside medication.
What support is available alongside cytisine treatment?
We recommend combining cytisine with behavioural support, smoking cessation apps, or support groups for the best results. The NHS Smokefree service offers free support resources.
Related Guides
Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Talal is a GMC registered doctor and medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He ensures clinical accuracy and reliability across health content.
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 18 October 2025
Next Review: 22 April 2026
Published on: 18 October 2025
Last Updated: 19 October 2025
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Complete Online Consultation
Fill out our secure medical questionnaire about your smoking history and overall health.
Clinical Review
Our UK-registered clinicians review your consultation (usually within 24 hours).
Prescription Issued
If suitable, we'll issue a private prescription for cytisine tablets.
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Your medication is dispensed and delivered discreetly to your chosen address.
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|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Delivery | 2-3 working days | Free | 3pm |
| Next-Day Delivery | Next working day | £3.99 | 3pm |
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I've tried everything to quit smoking - patches, gum, cold turkey. Cytisine was the first treatment that actually reduced my cravings enough to stick with it. The structured programme really helped, and I'm now 3 months smoke-free!
Cytisine worked well for reducing my smoking cravings, but I did experience some vivid dreams and dry mouth, especially in the first week. These eased off as treatment continued. Overall, helped me cut down significantly.
Have you used cytisine for smoking cessation? Share your experience
