The nicotine mouth spray is a type of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) that can be used to help you stop smoking. The nicotine mouth spray helps to reduce cravings and feelings of withdrawal by replacing some of the nicotine you would normally get from smoking. The nicotine mouth spray is often used together with the nicotine patch, which is a long-acting type of NRT, to help you quit. Watch the video and read the information below to learn about the nicotine mouth spray and how to use it to help you stop smoking.
How to use nicotine mouth spray
The nicotine mouth spray is sprayed onto the inside of your mouth, but you don't use it like a breath freshener. You want to absorb the nicotine through the lining of your mouth, not swallow it. It's all about placement. Here’s how to use the mouth spray in two simple steps:
Step one: Use the nicotine mouth spray when you feel like smoking. Try to anticipate when the cravings will strike. Press down on the black button. This allows the nozzle to slide into position.
Step two: Bring the nicotine mouth spray close and open your mouth, then aim it either into the side of your mouth, or under your tongue. Now press down on the nozzle. Do not swallow for a few seconds after spraying for best results.
Some types of acidic drinks like coffee, fruit juice, soft drinks or beer can affect how well the spray works. Wait for 15 minutes after having these drinks before using the spray. The spray also won’t work as well if you take it while eating or drinking.
How the nicotine mouth spray helps
The nicotine mouth spray helps by replacing some of the nicotine you would normally get from smoking; it can help to manage cravings. Using the nicotine mouth spray can also help to manage some of the other symptoms of nicotine withdrawal when you quit such as difficulty concentrating, frustration, restlessness and anxiety.
What dose should I use?
Each nicotine mouth spray pump has 150 sprays/doses. The right dose for you depends on when you have your first cigarette in the morning and the number of cigarettes that you smoke each day – talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the right dose for you.
Use the mouth spray for at least eight weeks, reducing the frequency of use as directed.
How do I get the nicotine mouth spray?
You can buy the nicotine mouth spray at pharmacies, supermarkets or online. The nicotine mouth spray is not currently available at a discounted price on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
For your best chance of quitting
For your best chance of success, call Quitline and use a faster-acting type of NRT (mouth spray, gum, lozenge or inhalator), along with the nicotine patch. It is safe to use these two types of NRT together. NRT helps to reduce your cravings to smoke, while Quitline will help you to identify your other triggers to smoke. Call 13 7848 to speak to our friendly and qualified Quitline counsellors today.
For more information: talk to your doctor, pharmacist or Quitline. For an overview of nicotine replacement therapy, watch our NRT frequently asked questions video. You can also view the patient resources on the Alfred Health website.
If you're thinking about quitting
If you're thinking of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgemental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English.
Please note, this information is not intended to replace consumer medicines information or health professional advice. If you would like to provide feedback, please contact quit@cancervic.org.au.