Cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive substance that makes quitting smoking cold turkey difficult and frustrating. If you've tried to quit smoking before and been unsuccessful, you may need nicotine replacement therapy to help you taper off nicotine, eventually eliminating your body's need for it. Nicotrol NS is a nasal spray that contains nicotine to reduce cravings and prevent the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. With the help of a nicotine replacement supplement like Nicotrol NS, you may finally be able to quit smoking for good.
Function
Nicotrol NS is a nasal spray created by Pfizer that contains nicotine and is available only by prescription from a doctor. Each spray of Nicotrol NS contains 0.5 mg of nicotine, which is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the nasal cavity. By administering the spray in each nostril several times a day, the patient can control his own dosage of nicotine to prevent cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking. Exact dosage of Nicotrol NS depends on the patient and the doctor prescribing the medication.
Time Frame
Pfizer suggests using Nicotrol NS for a maximum of 3 months. Pfizer recommends one to two doses per hour, but patients may use up to five doses per hour if necessary, with 40 doses as the maximum daily dosage. Although it is suggested that the patient tapers slowly off Nicotrol NS as she feels comfortable, Pfizer states that "no tapering strategy has been shown to be optimal in clinical studies." One dose of Nicotrol NS consists of two sprays of 0.5 mg in each nostril, for a total of 2 mg of nicotine per dose.
Considerations
Nicotrol NS should not be taken by women who are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant while taking the medication. Additionally, individuals with sinus problems or frequent sinus infections should tell their doctor, because sinus congestion can affect the absorption of nicotine into the mucous membranes in the nasal cavity. Patients should consult their doctor before taking Nicotrol NS if they are on any other medications, especially Clozapine, an anti-psychotic medication that can cause an increase in side effects and other possible health complications.
Effects
Even when using Nicotrol NS to help quit smoking, some nicotine withdrawal symptoms may occur, including dizziness, nausea, changes in mood, cold sweats, diarrhea and vomiting. Additional side effects while taking Nicotrol NS can occur, including nasal congestion, nasal irritation, eye irritation, earaches, nose numbness, pharyngitis, flushed face, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, throat irritation and watery eyes. If these symptoms are severe, they should be reported to a doctor as soon as possible.
Warning
Because Nicotrol NS contains nicotine, an addictive substance, patients may feel a transfer of dependency from smoking cigarettes to taking Nicotrol NS. Nicotrol NS should not be taken longer than prescribed or used more often than prescribed, particularly if the patient is feeling a dependence on the medication. Other adverse side effects of Nicotrol NS that may be serious include tooth and gum problems, confusion, heart palpitations, menstrual disorders and severe allergic reactions. Severe symptoms and side effects should be reported to a doctor immediately.
