Nicotine inhaler approved for smoking cessation

FDA Consumer, July-August, 1997

Smokers fighting the urge to light up have a new addition in the smoking cessation arsenal--a prescription nicotine inhaler.

The Nicotrol Inhaler (nicotine inhalation system) allows smokers to inhale the dose from a nicotine cartridge through a plastic mouthpiece. The nicotine is absorbed into the body through the mucous membranes of the mouth.

While the inhaler's ability to satisfy smokers' psychological needs for the ritual of bringing hand to mouth is unknown, quit rates in clinical trials with the inhaler were comparable to other smoking cessation products already on the market.

The Nicotrol Inhaler, approved by FDA May 2, is manufactured by Pharmacia & Upjohn Inc., Kalamazoo, Mich., and marketed by McNeil Consumer Products, Fort Washington, Pa.