Nicotine Nasal spray, solution Health Article

Generic name(s):

Nicotine Nasal spray, solution

Brand name(s):

Commit, Habitrol, Leader Nicotine Polacrilex, Nicoderm, Nicoderm C-Q, Nicoderm C-Q Clear, Nicorelief, Nicorette, Nicorette DS, Nicotine Mint, Nicotine Patch, Nicotine Patch S-2, Nicotine Patch S-3, Nicotine Patch Step 1, Nicotine Polacrilex, Nicotrol, Nicotrol Inhaler, Nicotrol NS, Nicotrol Refill, ProStep

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.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

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

How should I use this medicine?

You should stop smoking completely before using the nasal spray. Follow the directions carefully. Use exactly as directed. Blow nose gently to clear nasal passages. Tilt head back slightly and administer the prescribed amount of nasal spray. Do not sniff, swallow, or inhale through the nose as the spray is being given.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

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

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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.

What may interact with this medicine?

• medicines for asthma
• medicines for high blood pressure
• medicines for mental depression

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Always carry the nasal spray 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.

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
• 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

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.