What the Nicotrol® Nicotine Inhaler Is and How to Use it:
When one draws on the mouthpiece end of the nicotine inhaler over the course of about 20 minutes / 80 puffs, 4mg of nicotine is released and 2mg is absorbed through the membranes in the mouth and throat. Less than 5 percent of the inhaled nicotine reaches the respiratory tract. This can be repeated every 1-2 hours.
One Nicotrol cartridge delivers about the same amount of nicotine to the user as one cigarette.
Length of Nicotine Inhaler Therapy:
Do not smoke while using the nicotine inhaler.
The nicotine inhaler is a prescribed medication that should be carefully used according to package directions and your doctor's recommendation.
Common Side Effects of the Nicotine Inhaler:
- throat and/or mouth irritation
- cough
- stomach upset
- change in taste
- sinus pain/pressure
- pain in the jaw, neck or back
- headaches
In addition, the nicotine inhaler can cause symptoms that fall outside of those listed here and below in the special precautions section. If you experience anything out of the ordinary while using this product, call your doctor.
Special Precautions:
- You are pregnant. Nicotine can be harmful to the fetus so you should try to quit without the use of an NRT if possible.
- You've recently had a heart attack, have a heart condition, high blood pressure or problems with circulation.
- You have respiratory problems such as asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema.
- You have hyperthyroidism or insulin-dependent diabetes.
- You have kidney or liver disease.
Symptoms of Nicotine Overdose:
Signs of a nicotine overdose may include:
- dizziness
- upset stomach
- bad headaches
- vomiting
- cold sweats
- drooling
- confusion
- blurred vision
- hearing problems
- weakness or fainting
The Pros and Cons of the Nicotine Inhaler:
The nicotine inhaler reduces symptoms of nicotine withdrawal by allowing ex-smokers to quit using nicotine gradually.
Cons:
The nicotine inhaler reinforces smoking behavior.
When we quit smoking, it is counter-productive to use a NRT that mimics the cigarettes we are working so hard to break free of, both in looks and in how it is used.
Risk of re-addiction.
Because the nicotine inhaler is used on an as-needed basis, the potential to abuse this quit aid is significant. As mentioned above, it is critical to use this nicotine-based product exactly as prescribed, weaning off of it in the amount of time suggested.
The Bottom Line:
The nicotine inhaler is a solid tool that can help you quit smoking, but remember that it is a quit aid, not a miracle worker. The magic for success with smoking cessation lies within you, not a product.
Work on developing the resolve to quit smoking one simple day at a time and be patient.
Time, determination and support will help you win this race. Believe that, believe in yourself and be willing to do the work it takes to quit for as long as it takes. You'll find that you can quit smoking, just as others have.Sources:
National Institutes of Health. Nicotine Oral Inhalation. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a606021.html Accessed August 2010.
Smokefree.gov. Nicotine Inhaler Fact Sheet. http://www.smokefree.gov/mg-nicotine_inhaler.aspx Accessed August 2010.
Pfizer - Pharmacia & Upjohn Co. Nicotrol® Inhaler. http://media.pfizer.com/files/products/uspi_nicotrol_inhaler.pdf Accessed August 2010.
