Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is used to help smokers quit smoking by delivering a safer alternative source of nicotine than cigarettes. Nicotine has poor oral bioavailability. Different dosage forms of nicotine are available on the market.

a) Define the term ‘oral bioavailability’ and explain why nicotine has poor oral bioavailability. (2 marks)

b) Nicotine is available as chewing gum. Explain in detail how nicotine can be delivered by chewing gum, the advantages of this route of administration, and the techniques involved in the use of nicotine chewing gum. (7 marks)

c) Nicotine is also available as a transdermal patch. Nicotine has a Log P (octanol/water) value of 1.2. Explain in detail the significance of Log P value in transdermal delivery. (6 marks)