Nicotine nasal spray
What is nicotine nasal spray?
NICOTINE (Nicotrol® NS) helps people stop smoking. By replacing nicotine found in cigarettes, physical withdrawal effects are less severe. Nicotine nasal spray is most effective when used in combination with a supervised stop-smoking program. Nicotine nasal spray is for use over short periods of time (not more than 3 months). Generic nicotine nasal spray is not yet available.
NOTE: In some cases, Zyban ® ( also known as bupropion), a precription medication, is used together with nicotine to help people stop smoking. You should only use Zyban ® with nicotine if these have been prescribed by your healthcare prescriber. Ask your prescriber for information and advice before purchasing any non-prescription nicotine products if you are currently on Zyban ®. The use of the two medicines together requires special observation by your prescriber.
What should my health care professional know before I use nicotine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- angina
- dental disease
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- irregular heartbeat
- overactive thyroid
- pheochromocytoma
- previous heart attack
- sodium-restricted diet
- stomach problems or ulcers
- an unusual or allergic reaction to nicotine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
You should stop smoking completely before using the nasal spray. Follow the directions carefully. Use exactly as directed. Blow nose gently to clear nasal passages. Tilt head back slightly and administer the prescribed amount of nasal spray. Do not sniff, swallow, or inhale through the nose as the spray is being given. To avoid the risk of infections, do not use the container for more than one person.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as your remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double doses.
What drug(s) may interact with nicotine?
- bupropion
- insulin
- propoxyphene
- propranolol
- theophylline
- warfarin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using nicotine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
- confusion
- dizziness
- fainting or lightheadedness
- fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations), chest pain
- headache
- hearing changes
- increased saliva
- nausea, vomiting
- rash
- seizures (convulsions)
- stomach pain
- swelling of hands or feet
- vision changes
- weakness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- diarrhea
- dry mouth
- flushing
- hiccups
- irritability
What should I watch for while taking nicotine?
Always carry the nasal spray with you. Do not smoke while you are using nicotine nasal spray.
If you are a diabetic and you quit smoking, the effects of insulin may be increased and you may need to reduce your insulin dose. Check with your prescriber or health care professional about how you should adjust your insulin dose.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children. Store nicotine in a safe place where children and pets cannot reach it, and be careful about throwing nasal spray container away. If a child ingests nicotine nasal spray, call your prescriber or health care professional or a poison control center at once.
Store below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). All nicotine products are sensitive to heat. Store in manufacturers packaging until ready to use. Protect from light. Throw away unused medicine after the expiration date.
[ Last Revised: 11/8/2005 5:40:00 PM ]
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