A nicotine inhalator or inhaler is a plastic device for delivering nicotine. It is shaped a little like a cigarette and is held between the fingers like a cigarette. It holds a replaceable cartridge containing a metered dose of nicotine. When inhaled, it delivers a vaporized dose of nicotine. Because the inhaler is held in the hand.fingers (unlike gum and patches) it may be suitable for people who are quitting smoking and want to substitute the 'act' of smoking or need to keep their hands occupied.

The most popular nicotine inhalator or inhaler is sold under the Nicorette brand. which is distributed by Johnson & Johnson (J&J).  The Nicorette Inhaler contains 10mg of nicotine.  In some countries inhalers are available only on prescription. In New Zealand Nicorette Inhalers are available from pharmacies without a prescription (OTC).

When you feel the urge for a cigarette, insert a fresh cartridge into the device and suck on the mouthpiece. This delivers the vaporised nicotine which helps you to overcome the withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping smoking. You can continue to suck on the cartridge until it is exhausted. Each cartridge lasts about 20 minutes. Most people use about 6 cartridges a day (that maximum recommended is 12). It is recommended that you should not use the inhaler for more than 12 months.

Nicotine replacement therapies such as the nicotine inhaler will improve your chances of successfully stopping smoking. There is little evidence that suggests any one method (gum, patches or inhalers) are more effective than any other, so your choice should be based on lifestyle, ease of use, smoking pattern, etc. It is possible to combine more than one method, eg. using the inhaler with patches.

Advantages and Disadvantages of nicotine inhalers:

• simple to use
• instant nicotine delivery
• can be a physical substitute for a cigarette
• very visible (not discreet)
• may have a taste
• not a constant delivery throughout the day
• mouthpiece must be cleaned

Learn more about the Nicorette Inhaler here.

Take smile-moment and watch a Nicorette Inhalator TV ad:

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