Nicotine nasal spray

Nicotine Nasal Spray

The nicotine nasal spray was approved by the FDA in 1997. Each nasal spray
contains 0.5mg of nicotine and a single dose is considered 1 spray per nostril. The
nasal spray is quickly absorbed into the body and has been described as the “most
like a cigarette” in how it makes a person feel quickly satisfied. The stop smoking
rates are similar to other nicotine replacement therapies, right around 5 to 7.5% of
success over quitting cold turkey.

Unfortunately, the nicotine nasal spray may prolong the addiction by 1 year in 3 to
13% of the users, perhaps in part to the higher blood nicotine levels seen with this
nicotine replacement therapy. This is a much longer dependence period than is
seen with other nicotine replacement aids.

Side effects include nasal irritation which is very common in the first 48 hours but
can continue for several weeks afterward. Other effects are eye and throat irritation,
but palpitations and nausea have both been reported. Wheezing and airway
constriction has also been seen with nasal spray use, so those with severe airways
reactivity should use an alternative nicotine replacement therapy.

As with all other nicotine replacement therapies, the nicotine nasal spray should
only be used in combination with other stop smoking aids under the direction of a
doctor.

Back to Stop Smoking Aids