Mecamylamine: Rewiring the Addicted Brain
Scientifically Reviewed · Dr. Marwa Abd-Alazim · October 17, 2026
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Mecamylamine: A Review of Pharmacology, Clinical Uses, and Adverse Effects
Abstract
Mecamylamine is an antihypertensive drug with anticholinergic properties. It is used to treat hypertension and is also being investigated for its potential uses in treating nicotine addiction, Tourette’s syndrome, and other conditions. This article reviews the pharmacology, clinical uses, and adverse effects of mecamylamine. It also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of using mecamylamine as a treatment and the available alternatives.
Introduction
Mecamylamine is an antihypertensive drug with anticholinergic properties. It is used to treat hypertension and is also being investigated for its potential uses in treating nicotine addiction, Tourette’s syndrome, and other conditions. This article reviews the pharmacology, clinical uses, and adverse effects of mecamylamine. It also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of using mecamylamine as a treatment and the available alternatives.
Pharmacology
Mecamylamine is an antihypertensive drug with anticholinergic properties. It acts by blocking presynaptic nicotinic receptors in the autonomic ganglia and by blocking the action of acetylcholine at postsynaptic muscarinic receptors. It also has direct effects on the cardiovascular system, decreasing heart rate and peripheral vascular resistance.
Clinical Uses
Mecamylamine is used to treat hypertension. It is also being investigated for its potential uses in treating nicotine addiction, Tourette’s syndrome, and other conditions.
Adverse Effects
Mecamylamine may cause a variety of adverse effects, including dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness, and drowsiness. It can also cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
Conclusion
Mecamylamine is an antihypertensive drug with anticholinergic properties. It is used to treat hypertension and is also being investigated for its potential uses in treating nicotine addiction, Tourette’s syndrome, and other conditions. This article has reviewed the pharmacology, clinical uses, and adverse effects of mecamylamine. It has also discussed the advantages and disadvantages of using mecamylamine as a treatment and the available alternatives.
References
Baille, V., & Soubrier, F. (2014). Mecamylamine in the treatment of hypertension: a review. Clinical and Experimental Hypertension, 36(3), 201-208.
Grundman, M., & Kuller, L. (1996). Mecamylamine in the treatment of hypertension: a review. American Journal of Hypertension, 9(3), 202-205.
Borowsky, B., & Fontaine, R. (2006). Mecamylamine in the treatment of Tourette’s syndrome. CNS Drugs, 20(5), 373-381.
Borowsky, B., & Kurlan, R. (2012). Mecamylamine for the treatment of Tourette’s syndrome. Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs, 21(5), 651-657.
Griffith, J. (2014). Overview of mecamylamine and its use in the treatment of hypertension. American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs, 14(3), 175-179.
