The invention provides methods and materials for treating the effects of nicotine. In particular, the invention provides methods that involve administering a neurotensin receptor (NTR) agonist to a mammal that has been exposed to nicotine. The NTR agonist typically is administered in an amount effective to diminish or abolish the effects that nicotine has on the treated mammal. NTR agonists that can be used in methods of the invention include neurotensin (NT) polypeptide analogs such as NT69L. The invention also provides compositions containing an NTR agonist in combination with other agents used to help overcome nicotine effects such as sensitization and dependence. The compositions provided herein can be used to treat the effects of nicotine, including hyperactivity, hypothermia, respiratory distress, and hypertension.