Background: Through measurements of the heart rate variability (HRV) accompanied by the pertinent biomarker assays, the effects of nicotine and byproducts derived from alternative nicotine delivery systems (ANDS) on the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and hormonal system have been investigated. Methods: HRV was studied in a group of volunteers (17 people), involving non-smokers, i.e., who never smoked before (11), ex-smokers (4) and active smokers (2). ANDS and smoking simulators, including regular, nicotine-free and electronic cigarettes; tobacco heating systems; chewing gums and nicotine packs of oral fixation (nic-packs), were used. Blood pressure, levels of stress hormones in saliva and catecholamines in the blood were also monitored. Results: HRV analysis showed relatively small changes in HRV and in the other studied parameters with the systemic use of nic-packs with low and moderate nicotine contents (up to 6 mg) compared to other ANDS. Conclusions: The HRV method is proven to be a promising technique for evaluation of the risks associated with smoking, dual use of various ANDS and studying the biomedical aspects of smoking cessation. Nic-packs are shown to be leaders in biological safety among the studied ANDS. A sharp surge in the activity of the sympathetic division of the ANS within the first minutes of the use of nicotine packs implies that nicotine begins to act already at very low doses (before entering the blood physically in any significant amount) through fast signal transmission to the brain from the nicotinic and taste buds located in the mouth area.
Respiratory diseases take the lead in the infectious pathology pattern of various organs and systems and are the most common. Acute bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchi due to a viral infection and is characterized by a persistent cough that can be productive or dry. The authors consider the use of herbal preparations as an effective symptomatic product for the treatment of cough of various origins. Medicinal herbs are widely used in medicine due to many useful properties and do not have any serious side effects. Ivy leaf (Hedera helix) extract preparations are common cough medicines available over the counter that are approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Ivy (Hedera helix) leaves contain various biologically active components, but saponins are the main substance. Saponins are natural compounds that have a variety of biological effects. According to literature data, the action of saponins is determined not only by their bronchodilator and mucolytic properties: among additional therapeutic options of saponins are high anti-inflammatory activity, as well as antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral effects. The article shows the potential for use of ivy saponins as carriers of pharmaceutical substances, which can significantly reduce the effective doses of certain drugs. Preparations containing ivy leaf extract are safe and approved for use even in new-borns. Also, herbal preparations with antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential become the object of study as a new strategy for treating COVID-19.
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