Nicotine nasal spray is a medicine that decreases smoke cravings. Usually, it works when a smoker sprays a measured dose of nicotine solution into the nose. The nasal mucous membranes then absorb the sprays into the bloodstream for treatment.
The nicotine nasal spray, together with nicotine inhalers are the two types of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), which need a prescription from a doctor before use. All the other forms of NRTs are offered OTC.
Requirements before using Nicotine Nasal Spray
Ensure you discuss with your doctor the following conditions before you start using the prescriptions. You:
- are expectant, planning to conceive, and breastfeeding.
- manage diabetes using insulin
- experience allergies and sinus and thyroid problems
- have nicotine allergies or any other prescription drugs
- suffer from circulatory diseases such as Raynaud’s phenomenon and Buerger’s disease
- have a peptic ulcer
- have angina, irregular heartbeats or heart problems such as a heart attack
- struggle with high blood pressure, liver, or kidney diseases.
Also, ensure your doctor knows about any current drugs you are using, such as herbal treatments, vitamins, and over-the-counter drugs.
If you take the following medicines, alert your doctor immediately since they can interact with nicotine nasal spray.
- Acetaminophen
- All medications that contain caffeine
- Cold and cough medications such as pentazocine, oxazepam, imipramine theophylline, and isoproterenol
- Alpha-blockers like prazosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, and alfuzosin, among others
- Beta-blockers such as propranolol, labetalol, nadolol, metoprolol, and atenolol
Side Effects
Common side effects associated with the nasal spray include coughing, watery eyes, runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and hot feelings behind the nose or throat.
Rarely, side effects can become severe. However, if you experience rapid heartbeats, seek medical care immediately. Apart from the above side effects, you may also experience some other unusual symptoms. Therefore, ensure to call your doctor if you identify additional signs in your body while using nicotine nasal spray.
Nicotine Nasal Spray Addiction Issues
Since they are habit-forming, always ensure you adhere to your doctor’s prescription and instructions for careful use. Generally, the quantity of nicotine in NRTs is less than that found in cigarettes and is administered more gradually.
The addiction risks are also minimal, but not nil. Therefore, if you realize that you cannot stop using the spray after completing therapy, notify your doctor for assistance to avoid withdrawal syndromes.
Warnings
Never use nicotine nasal spray if you are still smoking since you will be at high risk of a nicotine overdose. Also, do not combine it with any drugs that contain nicotine to quit smoking, such as inhalers, gums, nicotine patches, or lozenges.
Final Thoughts from the Recover
Nicotine nasal spray is a useful aid for quitting smoking, especially when you follow the right instructions and support from a qualified doctor. However, never assume that using them will be a comfortable journey. But be patient enough since nicotine addiction takes time before recovery.
Besides, if you want a safe process that will help you to professionally quit smoking, ensure to check rehab facilities near you. You will be amazed at how you will find professionals therapists to help you quit smoking carefully using nicotine nasal sprays.