Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Nicotine Metered Dose Nasal Spray (NICOTINE SPRAY - NASAL)

For quitting smoking.

Brand Name(s): Nicotrol

Generic Name: Nicotine

Instructions

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

This medicine is for use in the nose. Avoid getting the medicine into the eyes or mouth. Rinse the eyes with water if the medicine is sprayed into the eyes.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

The first time you open a new spray, you need to get it ready to use. Point the bottle away from you and spray into the air. Repeat until you see a fine mist. It is now ready to use. This process is called priming the spray.

Read and carefully follow package instructions for preparing, using and cleaning the pump.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Blow and wipe your nose with a clean tissue before using this product.

Tilt the head back slightly before spraying the medicine.

Do not sniff, swallow, or inhale through the nose while using the spray.

Avoid getting medicine in the eyes or mouth or on the skin. If medicine comes in contact with one of these areas, rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Do not blow nose for at least 2 to 3 minutes after using this medicine.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Store in original bottle, tightly closed and upright.

Do not share this nasal spray with other people. Doing so may spread infections.

Do not use more than 40 doses in 24 hours.

Cautions

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Avoid smoking while on this medicine. Smoking may increase your risk for stroke, heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure, and other diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • coughing
  • nosebleeds
  • hoarseness or throat irritation
  • irritation inside the nose
  • runny nose
  • sneezing
  • changes in taste or unpleasant taste

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • dizziness
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • mood changes
  • slurred speech
  • weakness on one side of the body

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.