Information about Nicotine Nasal Spray

Nicotine nasal spray is a prescription medicine that reduces cravings to smoke when a nicotine solution is sprayed into the nose. The solution is absorbed into the bloodstream through the nasal mucosa.

Nicotine Nasal Spray Therapy

Each dose consists of two sprays -- one spray per nostril. Your doctor may suggest you start nicotine nasal spray therapy with one or two doses per hour. Do not use more than five doses per hour or 40 doses in a 24-hour period.

Using nicotine nasal spray:

Wash hands and blow nose to clear nasal passages.

Before the first use, prime the pump on the bottle by pumping it into a paper towel until a fine mist appears. Discard the towel.

Tilt your head back slightly and insert the tip of the bottle into the nose, pointing it toward the back of the nose.

Pump one spray into each nostril. Don't inhale, sniff or swallow while spraying.

In general, nicotine nasal spray therapy lasts eight weeks. After that, your doctor will probably suggest reducing the amount used daily over the next four to six weeks until you're finished with it.

If you find that you are unable stop using nicotine nasal spray at the end of the therapy period, inform your doctor and he/she will help you.

Common side effects associated with nicotine nasal spray include:

• hot, spicy feeling at the back of the nose or throat
• runny nose
• sore throat
• coughing
• sneezing
• watering eyes

In rare instances, side effects can be serious. If you experience a rapid heart rate while using nicotine nasal spray, seek medical attention immediately.

Additionally, nicotine nasal spray can cause symptoms other than those listed here and below in the special precautions section. If you experience anything unusual while using this product, call your doctor.

Be sure to tell your doctor if any of the following apply to you:

• You are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• You are allergic to nicotine or any other prescription medicine.
• You've had a heart attack, have angina, irregular heartbeat or heart disease.
• You have sinus problems and/or allergies.
• You have thyroid problems.
• You have high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease.

Share all medications you're using with your doctor, including vitamins and over-the-counter drugs.

Do not smoke while using nicotine nasal spray or any other NRT, as you run the risk of a 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

If you suspect you've had an overdose of nicotine, stop using the nicotine nasal spray and call your doctor immediately.

Pros
Nicotine nasal spray can reduce the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal by allowing ex-smokers to stop using nicotine gradually.

Cons
Nicotine nasal spray may be habit-forming. It is important to use this prescription medicine as specified and wean off it in the time recommended. Work closely with your doctor if you choose this particular NRT to help you stop smoking.

The magic for success with smoking cessation lies in your will and determination to stop smoking. Pair that with the quit aid of your choice and some support, and you can find lasting freedom from nicotine addiction.

• Quit Aids: Know Your Choices

• About.com Smoking Cessation Support Forum

Take your quit program one simple day at a time and be patient with yourself. Healing from nicotine addiction takes as long as it takes -- there's no rushing the process. Stick with it, and the day will come when tobacco will no longer control your life.

Smoking cessation is doable and so worth the work it takes to achieve... you are worth the work.

_Source:

_{National Institutes of Health. Nicotine Nasal Spray. Accessed February 2011.}