You should start using the inhalator after your last cigarette.

To use the inhalator, perforate the cartridge at both ends by pushing it firmly into the mouthpiece. Puff on the inhaler as you would on a cigarette, for it to be effective you will have to puff harder and for longer on the inhaler than you would on a cigarette. 10 puffs on the inhaler are roughly equivalent to one puff on a cigarette.

After 20 minutes of frequent puffing, replace the cover of the mouthpiece for the next session. Each cartridge can be used 3 to 4 times - between 60 and 80 minutes of intensive puffing.

The inhaler may taste unpleasant at first, and irritate the throat. Do not be put off by this. Most people adapt to it very well after persisting for a day or two, but it may take up to a week to get used to it.

The plastic cartridge inside the inhalator contains a plug impregnated with nicotine. As air is inhaled through the inhaler the nicotine is vaporised, and reaches your blood stream after being absorbed through the lining of your mouth and throat.

Peak levels of nicotine are reached after about 15 minutes of inhalation.

Do not wait until you feel the urge to smoke before using the inhalator - it is better to puff on the inhaler at regular intervals throughout the day - especially during the first week. Aim to use at least 6 cartridges a day.

This will enable your body to absorb about half of the average smoking levels of nicotine. This is enough to be of substantial help in reducing or removing the urge to smoke and withdrawal symptoms.

Using the inhalator just two or three times a day is unlikely to be of much help.

Try to avoid fizzy drinks, tea or coffee before or at the same time as the inhaler because they will increase the acidity of your saliva and decrease absorption of nicotine. If you have had one of these drinks and you are due to use the inhaler, rinse your mouth out with water first.

Nicotine inhalator should be used fully for at least 8 - 12 weeks after stopping smoking. The dose should be gradually reduced over the last 2 weeks of treatment.

For information on:

nicotine products that are available and their prices click here.

the side effects of NRT click here.