The Nicotine Inhaler
What Is It?
The nicotine inhaler, also nicknamed "the puffer" is a thin, plastic cartridge that contains a porous
nicotine plug in its base. By puffing on the cartridge, nicotine vapor is extracted and absorbed
through the lining of the mouth. Each cartridge delivers up to 400 puffs of nicotine vapor.
It takes at least 80 puffs to obtain the equivalent amount of nicotine delivered by one cigarette.
Temperature affects the amount of nicotine that is extracted from the inhaler device. At cooler
temperatures, less nicotine is extractable. Specific information on this aspect is included in
the product packaging inserts.
Research on the nicotine inhaler has demonstrated that it nearly doubles quit rates when compared
with placebo inhalers. This is similar to other pharmaceutical products, like the patch, the gum
and bupropion (Zyban/Wellbutrin SR®).
The nicotine inhaler was made available by prescription in June 1998.
Warnings, Cautions and Various Nasty Possibilities
Like any medication, the inhaler can have negative side effects. The most common side effect of
the inhaler is irritation of the lining of the mouth. Less common are coughing, runny nose or
upset stomach. These symptoms are generally mild and likely to diminish with regular use.
As in using all other forms of nicotine replacement, if you receive too little nicotine you may experience
the symptoms of withdrawal. This can occur either from simply not using the inhaler frequently
enough, or by not using it properly.
Using the Nicotine Inhaler
After placing the cartridge into your mouth, puff in either shallow or deep breaths, to bring
the vaporized nicotine into the back of your throat. Users are generally instructed to puff
frequently, using from 6-16 cartridges per day during the first three months. Users then
taper or reduce the number of cartridges during the subsequent 6-12 weeks. The manufacturer
states that the inhaler should not be used for longer than 6 months.
Why Choose the Nicotine Inhaler?
Some people prefer the inhaler as a form of nicotine replacement because both the inhaling
process and handling the cartridge mimic the behavioral aspects of smoking. Also, the
amount of nicotine delivered to and the effects on the user's body resemble those produced
by nicotine gum, thereby making the potential for abuse low.
To help you determine if the inhaler is right for you, you may consider using the QuitNet
Medication Wizard.
More medically specific information ...
If you think that the Nicotine Inhaler is right for you, see your doctor about a prescription.
Content author:
Alan S. Peters, CTTS-M
Reviewed by:
Andy Perez, MD, MBA, FACEP, February 2009
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