What is this medication for?
This medication belongs to the family of medications known as nicotine
replacement therapies. It is used to help people over 18 years of age quit
smoking. When a person stops smoking, they go through withdrawal from nicotine,
causing symptoms such as cravings, irritability, mood swings, restlessness,
trouble concentrating, and increased appetite. This medication helps reduce
the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal by replacing some of the nicotine that the
person is no longer getting through cigarettes. Gradually, the dose is reduced
until the person no longer craves nicotine, and they can stop using the medication.
You should not smoke while you are using the nicotine inhaler. This medication
works best when used with a comprehensive program to quit smoking.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those
listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all
of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do
not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms
as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Nicotrol® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Ask your doctor or pharmacist to teach you how to use the nicotine inhaler
effectively and to give you tips on quitting smoking. As you inhale or puff
through the mouthpiece, the inhaler releases a vapor containing nicotine, which
is absorbed through the lining of your mouth and throat. One cartridge contains
enough nicotine for about 20 minutes of continuous puffing. Dispose of used
cartridges in a place where children or pets cannot get to them.
Store the cartridges at room temperature, protect them from heat (over 77°F),
light and humidity, and keep them out of the reach of children.
The dosage is individualized and depends on how much nicotine is needed to
relieve nicotine withdrawal symptoms. For the first 3 to 12 weeks of treatment,
a higher dose (at least 6 cartridges per day) is used, and then the dose is
gradually reduced over the next 6 to 12 weeks. The maximum dose is 16 cartridges
per day.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be used on a regular schedule as
prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take your next
scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Who should NOT take this medication?
This medication should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to nicotine, menthol or any ingredients of the medication
- is a non-smoker or occasional smoker
- has just had a heart attack
- has life-threatening arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythm)
- has severe or worsening angina (chest pain)
- has recently had a stroke