Nicotine (Nicotrol) Nasal Spray: Minimizing the Side Effects

One of the many strategies I have used to try to quit smoking is nicotine nasal spray (also known as Nictorol) can be an important part of a quit-smoking strategy.  This article, which I originally wrote for the Yahoo Contributor Network, discusses some tips and tricks to help people overcome side effects that can be caused by nicotine nasal spray.
_______________________________________________



There are many products available to help smokers kick the cigarette habit once and for all, ranging from pills to patches to gum, and much more! One of the product available for people with an extremely addicted smokers is nicotine nasal spray, also known by its brand-name Nicotrol. Nicotine nasal spray is available by prescription only, so you must talk to a doctor before beginning its use.

Once you get a prescription for Nicotrol nasal spray, you will be able to begin using the product whenever you have a nicotine craving. Unlike the gum or the patch, the nicotine nasal spray has much more intense side effects that can catch first-time users off guard. A burning sensation, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes can all result from using the nicotine nasal spray to quit smoking. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to minimize any potential side effects:

1) Use the spray frequently, at least 8 times per day. According to the package instructions, the body quickly becomes accustomed to Nicotrol nasal spray and side effects subside substantially when the product is used regularly. At first, you may not want to use the nasal spray that often, but it is important to use the spray at least 8 times per day to get your nasal passages accustomed to receiving nicotine.

2) Do not use Nicotrol nasal spray more frequently than directed. While you don't want to use the spray too little, you also don't want to use it too much. Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions closely in terms of what your maximum dose is, and do not exceed your dose. Doing so may worsen side effects from the medication.

3) Make sure not to sniff or inhale through your nose directly after using the nasal spray. This is one of the most important "rules" with nicotine nasal spray. When you sniff the spray high up into your nasal passages, horrible burning will be the inevitable result. Instead, you'll want to insert the tip of the spray bottle just inside the nostril, spray gently, and then refrain from sniffing for a few minutes. This will ensure that the nicotine spray stays in the lower part of the nose and not higher where it can cause more problems.

By following these very simple steps, you can minimize side effects caused by Nicotrol nasal spray, and may be able to integrate nicotine spray into your successful quitting routine. Only your doctor can decide if nicotine nasal spray is right for you, so talk to your primary care physician about quitting smoking today!