Nicotine Inhalation

What is this medicine?

NICOTINE (NIK oh teen) helps people stop smoking. This medicine replaces the nicotine found in cigarettes and helps to decrease withdrawal effects. It is most effective when used in combination with a stop-smoking program.

How should I use this medicine?

You should stop smoking completely before using the inhaler. Follow the directions carefully. Use exactly as directed. Do not use the inhaler more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• changes in hearing

• changes in vision

• chest pain

• cold sweats

• confusion

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• headache

• increased saliva

• nausea, vomiting

• stomach pain

• weakness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• dry mouth

• hiccups

• irritability

• nervousness or restlessness

• trouble sleeping or vivid dreams

What may interact with this medicine?

• medicines for asthma

• medicines for high blood pressure

• medicines for mental depression

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Protect from heat and light. Throw away unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diabetes

• heart disease, angina, irregular heartbeat or previous heart attack

• lung disease, including asthma

• overactive thyroid

• pheochromocytoma

• stomach problems or ulcers

• an unusual or allergic reaction to nicotine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Always carry the inhaler with you. Do not smoke, chew nicotine gum, or use snuff while you are using this medicine. This reduces the chance of a nicotine overdose.

If you are a diabetic and you quit smoking, the effects of insulin may be increased and you may need to reduce your insulin dose. Check with your doctor or health care professional about how you should adjust your insulin dose.