Indications 

Nicorette Inhaler is indicated to assist individuals in quitting smoking by alleviating nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It should be utilized within a comprehensive smoking cessation program, encompassing support groups, counseling, and behavioral change techniques. 

As a smoking cessation aid, Nicorette Inhaler works by replacing the nicotine obtained from cigarettes. Moreover, it replaces the hand-to-mouth action of smoking, keeping hands occupied and facilitating a successful and lasting quit. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Nicorette Inhaler and every time you get a refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have queries or uncertainties. 

To effectively use Nicorette Inhaler, patients must possess the motivation to quit smoking and receive instructions to cease smoking altogether. 

This inhaler can be used whenever the urge to smoke arises. As time progresses, the frequency of usage can be gradually reduced to effectively manage nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms.  

The usual dosing and duration guidelines for this inhaler are provided below. However, if your physician prescribes a different regimen, it should be followed strictly. 

• Initial treatment: Utilize a minimum of 6 cartridges up to a maximum of 12 cartridges per day up to 12 weeks 
• Gradual Reduction (if needed): For 12 to 24 weeks, gradually decrease the number of cartridges used. Cease the usage of the inhaler when the daily intake is reduced to 1-2 cartridges. 

To properly use Nicorette Inhaler, follow these steps: 

1. Unwrap the mouthpiece from the plastic packaging.  
2. To detach the two components of the mouthpiece, ensure the marks are properly aligned. 
3. Remove one cartridge from the tray by peeling the back foil then insert the cartridge firmly into the bottom of the mouthpiece until the seal breaks. 
4. Reattach the top part of the mouthpiece.  
   1. Align the marks and securely press down to break the top foil seal of the cartridge. 
   2. Twist to misalign the marks and ensure a secure fit. 
5. Position the tapered end of the Inhaler in your mouth and inhale deeply, directing the intake to the back of your throat. Alternatively, you may opt for short breaths or puffs.  
6. Engage in frequent and continuous puffing for approximately 20 minutes until the nicotine in the cartridge is depleted. 
7. Dispose of the used cartridge away from children and pets. The mouthpiece can be reused after cleaning it with soap and water. 

Consult your doctor before discontinuing the use of Nicorette Inhaler. Abruptly stopping may result in withdrawal symptoms such as tobacco cravings, nervousness, irritability, and headache.  

To minimize withdrawal, your doctor may gradually taper your dose. Promptly notify your doctor or pharmacist if you encounter any signs of withdrawal. 

If smoking cessation is not achieved within 4 weeks of using the inhaler, notify your physician. Discontinuation of use and attempting again at a later time may be necessary as successful quitting often involves multiple attempts. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Nicorette Inhaler. Inform your doctor right away if any of them persists or worsens. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Nausea 
• Upset stomach 
• Pain or soreness of the mouth, tooth, or throat  
• Cough 
• Runny or stuffy nose 
• Changes in taste 
• Heartburn 
• Hiccups 
• Burping 
• Dry mouth 
• Sweating 
• Diarrhea 
• Muscle or joint pain 

Serious Side Effects 

• Serious eye problems:  
  • Sudden vision loss 
  • Blurred vision 
  • Tunnel vision 
  • Eye pain or swelling 
  • Seeing halos around lights 
• Serious heart problems: 
  • Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats 
  • Fluttering in the chest 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Sudden dizziness 
  • Lightheadedness 
  • Fainting 
• Severe headache 
• Confusion 
• Slurred speech 
• Arm or leg weakness 
• Trouble walking 
• Loss of coordination 
• Feeling unsteady 
• Very stiff muscles 
• High fever 
• Profuse sweating 
• Tremors 

Call your doctor promptly and ask for medical help if you experience any of the severe side effects mentioned above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Nicorette Inhaler may occur. Ask for immediate medical assistance if you notice any of the following symptoms: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling (Face, tongue, or throat) 
• Trouble breathing 

Not all side effects of Nicorette Inhaler are included in this list. In case any unlisted effects occur, tell your doctor right away.   

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Nicorette Inhaler, inform your doctor and pharmacist of any known allergies, particularly to nicotine, other drugs, or any of the components of Nicorette Inhaler. 

To ensure Nicorette Inhaler is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Blood vessel disease (e.g., Raynaud’s disease, stroke) 
• Breathing problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema) 
• Diabetes 
• Heart disease (e.g., chest pain, heart attack, irregular heartbeat) 
• High blood pressure 
• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Esophagus problems (e.g., esophagitis) 
• Stomach or intestinal sores (peptic ulcers) 
• Certain adrenal problems (pheochromocytoma) 
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) 
• Seizures 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking to reduce the risk of drug interaction with Nicorette Inhaler. 

Some products that may interact with Nicorette Inhaler include: 

• Medications for high blood pressure: including beta-blockers (e.g., labetalol, prazosin) 
• Bronchodilators/decongestants: such as isoproterenol, phenylephrine 

Notify healthcare providers and pharmacists of your smoking cessation decision as it may impact the liver’s metabolism of certain drugs like: 

• Acetaminophen 
• Caffeine 
• Insulin 
• Oxazepam 
• Pentazocine 
• Propoxyphene 
• Propranolol 
• Theophylline  
• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, imipramine) 
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) 

Refrain from consuming acidic food and beverages (e.g., citrus fruits, coffee, juices, carbonated drinks) 15 minutes before inhaling this medication. 

Refrain from driving or engaging in tasks that require alertness until you have assessed the effects of this inhaler. 

Smoking and nicotine pose a risk to the developing fetus. Pregnant individuals should attempt to quit smoking without nicotine replacements. 

The use of Nicorette Inhaler during pregnancy should only occur, when necessary, after discussing potential advantages and disadvantages with a healthcare provider. 

Smoking and using this inhaler can transfer nicotine into breast milk, potentially causing harm to a nursing infant. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding and discuss any potential risks to your child before using this medication.