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Nicotine Nasal Spray (Nicotrol NS) Drug for Smoking Cessation: Use, Side Effects, Interactions




Nicotine nasal spray
(Nicotrol NS, United States)

More drugs used for Smoking Cessation.

Use:

Nicotine Nasal Spray or Nicotrol NS is used to help smokers quit smoking.

How It Works:

Nicotine Nasal Spray or Nicotrol NS provides nicotine via the nose in order to maintain a smoker's nicotine blood levels. Smokers have a dependence upon nicotine and quitting suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms. The dependence varies depending upon the number of cigarettes smoked.
Nicotine Nasal Spray or Nicotrol NS is about as effective as nicotine patches in helping smokers quit, however it is absorbed faster and more similarly to the nicotine in cigarette smoke.

Side Effects:

Nasal irritation, nose bleeds, watery eyes, and ear sensations are side effects that can occur with Nicotine Nasal Spray or Nicotrol NS.
Dependence on the Nicotine Nasal Spray or Nicotrol NS may be a problem and its rate is estimated to be as high as one third to one half of smokers who use it to quit.

Cautions for People:

Smoking cessation with Nicotine Nasal Spray or Nicotrol NS requires behavioral modification as well. People must realize that they may need life style changes, support from family and friends, as well as will power to successfully quit smoking.

Drug Interactions:

Nicotine Nasal Spray or Nicotrol NS may affect levels of drugs like theophylline in the body, however because it is a nasal spray, these interactions may not be common.

Further Reading:

N Engl J Med 1988;319:1318
Drugs 1990;40:1
Lancet 1992;340:324

Added to Virtual Drugstore August 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.













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