Nicorette spray long-term side effects
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Introduction
Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as Nicorette spray are commonly used to aid smoking cessation. While effective in helping individuals quit smoking, these therapies can have side effects, especially with long-term use. This synthesis examines the long-term side effects of Nicorette spray based on findings from multiple research studies.
Key Insights
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Local Irritant Effects:
- Nicotine nasal spray causes significant irritant side effects such as runny nose, nasal irritation, throat irritation, watering eyes, and sneezing, which decrease significantly within the first week of use.
- Nicotine mouth spray is associated with high rates of local adverse effects, including burning of the tongue/throat, nausea, and hiccups.
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Systemic Side Effects:
- Nicotine can cause transient dizziness, nausea, and nicotine-induced nystagmus (NIN), with the intensity of these effects being dose-dependent. These side effects are more pronounced with higher nicotine dosages.
- Nicotine-induced nausea and dizziness can be exacerbated by motion stimulation, indicating increased sensitivity to motion sickness.
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Psychological and Physiological Effects:
- Nicotine replacement therapy, including gum, can reduce symptoms of irritability, anxiety, impatience, restlessness, excessive hunger, difficulty concentrating, drowsiness, sleep disturbance, and tobacco craving intensity during the initial weeks of smoking cessation. However, these effects tend to diminish over time, with some symptoms like increased appetite and excessive eating persisting longer.
Conclusion
Nicorette spray, both nasal and mouth formulations, is effective in aiding smoking cessation but is associated with several side effects. Local irritant effects are common initially but tend to decrease over time. Systemic side effects such as dizziness and nausea are dose-dependent and can be exacerbated by motion. Psychological and physiological symptoms are generally reduced in the short term but may persist or change over longer periods. Further studies are needed to optimize dosage and minimize side effects for better long-term compliance and success rates.
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