GENERIC NAME: NICOTINE - NASAL (NICK-oh-teen)
BRAND NAME(S): Nicotrol NS
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to help quit smoking. Nicotine is the active ingredient in tobacco. This drug should be used in combination with a complete stop-smoking program.
HOW TO USE: This medication is used as a nasal spray, along with a complete stop-smoking program. It is important to stop smoking completely when starting this product, to avoid nicotine excess. Do not sniff, swallow or inhale through the nose as you use the spray. Your head should be tilted back slightly. Follow all instructions and learn proper technique for use. Generally, the dose starts at 2 to 4 sprays per hour, which may be increased up to 80 sprays (about one-half bottle) per day. For best results, use at least 16 sprays per day or as directed. Your dose will need to be adjusted to your particular needs, including smoking and medical history details. Generally, treatment is for 8 weeks, and the dosage is slowly decreased over the next 4-6 weeks. Treatment for longer than 6 months is typically not recommended, but consult your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nasal irritation, blistering or tingling, runny or bloody nose, throat irritation, watering eyes, sneezing, cough, change in taste or smell may occur. If these persist or worsen after a week, notify your doctor promptly. Very unlikely but report promptly: unusual chest pain or tightness, one-sided muscle weakness or speech problems, trouble breathing, rash. Symptoms related to nicotine excess include fast heartbeat, nausea and sweating. Withdrawal of nicotine too quickly may result in mood changes (irritability etc.). Notify your doctor promptly if these occur and your dose can be modified. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies), chronic nasal disorders, asthma, heart problems, kidney problems, liver disease, blood vessel disorders, thyroid disease (hyperthyroid), pheochromocytoma, intestinal ulcers, high blood pressure, diabetes. Since nicotine is addictive, you can become dependent on the nasal spray during treatment, so follow all instructions for use. If this drug contacts the skin, lips, mouth, eyes or ears, rinse the affected area immediately with water. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Smoking (How to Quit Smoking) - Learn how to quit smoking. Smoking is an addictive disease, read about the steps to quit smoking including medication and behavioral modification.
- Weight Control and Smoking Cessation - Learn how to avoid weight gain while quitting smoking. Lifestyle changes, medication, and weight management counseling are tools to help avoid gaining weight while quitting smoking.
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