Nicotine mouth spray

Last updated September 2025

Read time 5 minutes

The nicotine mouth spray is a type of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) that can be used to help you stop smoking or vaping.

The nicotine mouth spray helps to reduce cravings and feelings of withdrawal by replacing some of the nicotine you would normally get from smoking or vaping. 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 or vaping.

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 or vaping. Try to anticipate when the cravings will strike. Press down on the black button. This allows the nozzle to slide into position.

An infographic that explains to use a nicotine mouth spray, you need to press down on the black button then slide up.

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.

An infographic that says to aim a nicotine mouth spray into the side of your mouth or under your tongue.

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 or vaping; 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 or vape in the morning and the number of cigarettes or vapes that you have 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.

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 or lozenge), 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.

Looking for information on nicotine inhalators? Nicotine inhalators (also known as nicotine inhalers) were discontinued by manufacturers and are no longer available. Alternative faster-acting types of NRT include the mouth spray, gum and lozenges.

Examples of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)

Combination therapy can help you quit.

For more information: talk to your doctor, pharmacist or Quitline. Your doctor or pharmacist are best to advise you on your use of NRT. Our Quitline counsellors can give general advice and support to ensure you are using it correctly.

For an overview of nicotine replacement therapy, watch our NRT frequently asked questions video. You can also via the patient resources on the Alfred Health website.

Need support now?

Contact Quitline

Speak directly with a trained quit specialist. Our counsellors are available to provide immediate support, personalised quit plans, and answer all your questions.

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