Effects of acute nicotine administration on the function of the human parotid gland

The effect of acute administration of nicotine on the secretory function of the human parotid gland was investigated in 4 male volunteers. After intravenous infusion of 20 micrograms nicotine/kg b.w. within 10 min in all subjects an increased salivary amylase activity and protein concentration was observed. This phenomenon is believed to be caused by a stimulation of parotid beta-adrenoceptors secondary to a nicotine-induced release of catecholamines from the adrenals.