How to Use 니코레트 퀵미스트, a Nicotine Mouth Spray Available in Korea

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A nicotine spray that was previously approved as a prescription-only medicine has been reclassified as an over-the-counter product, meaning you can now consult a pharmacist at the pharmacy and purchase it on the spot.

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However, the way you use it is completely different from gum or patches.

You do not spray it into your throat. Let's go over how to use 니코레트 퀵미스트 oral spray.

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In short, it is an over-the-counter medicine that you spray inside your mouth. It is a product used as a supplementary aid when quitting smoking.

Each 1 spray contains 1mg of nicotine, and 150 sprays in total can be delivered from one bottle (13.2mL).

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The approved indication is 'relief of cravings to smoke and nicotine withdrawal symptoms as an adjunct therapy when quitting smoking' (South Korean approval).

Think of it as using nicotine to ease the cravings and withdrawal symptoms that arise when you stop smoking.

It is not a substitute for cigarettes — it is a supplementary tool to help you quit.

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The flavor is fresh mint; personally, I found it left a cool sensation in the mouth. The full ingredient list includes cooling agents such as L-menthol.

The body of the device is a slim cylinder that fits in your hand and is small enough to fit in a pocket, making it easy to carry around.

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This is the part that confuses people most. You do not spray it into your throat. Let's go through it in order.

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1. Opening the dispenser

Press the black button downward, then push it inward, and while holding it in, slide it upward. When you hear a "click," it is open.

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2. First, do a test spray (spray into the air)

If you are using it for the first time or have not used it for 2 days or more, press it into the air a few times until the mist comes out properly to prime the pump. At this time, make sure the nozzle is not pointing at yourself or anyone nearby.

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3. Spray 1 time inside the cheek (maximum 2 times per dose)

Point the nozzle toward the inside of your cheek or under your tongue and spray. Make sure it does not touch your lips, and do not inhale while spraying — it must not enter the airways.

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4. Hold it in your mouth for a few seconds

After spraying, hold it in your mouth without swallowing your saliva for a few seconds. This is because nicotine needs a little time to be absorbed through the oral mucosa.

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The rules may seem a bit strict, but they all come down to absorption.

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With this medicine, nicotine is absorbed through the inner cheek mucosa, not the throat. So if you spray it toward the top of your tongue or toward your throat, the effect is reduced.

The instruction not to inhale is also to prevent nicotine from entering the airways.

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One more thing: it is best to avoid food and drinks for about 15 minutes before and after use. Nicotine is mildly alkaline, so absorption is poor immediately after drinking acidic beverages such as coffee, carbonated drinks, or juice.

Some people ask, "Is it okay to use it while drinking coffee?" — if you take a sip of coffee and spray right away, you are getting less out of it.

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Please also be sure to follow the dosage limits.

Do not exceed 2 times per dose, 4 times per 1 hour, or 60 times per day.

Spraying multiple times at once may cause nicotine overdose, leading to nausea and dizziness.

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At first, use 1 spray each time a cigarette craving arises, then gradually reduce the number of uses over time.

The recommended usage schedule goes like this.

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Weeks 1–6: 1 spray when a craving hits; if it lingers a few minutes later, 1 more spray. Typically 1–2 sprays every 30 minutes to 1 hour.

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Weeks 7–9: Start reducing the number of daily uses, so that by week 9 you are down to about half the average from the early period.

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Weeks 10–12: If you have reduced to 2–4 sprays per day, stop use.

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Use beyond 6 months is not recommended, so please stay within the prescribed usage range.

Also, if your smoking has not decreased after 6 weeks of use, consult a pharmacist or doctor.

Quitting smoking cannot be achieved by medication alone — combining counseling or behavioral therapy raises the chances of success.

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Nicotine is a potent ingredient, and there are people who should not use it.

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Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those under 18 years of age, and non-smokers must not use this product.

This is because nicotine can affect the fetus or infant.

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It is also contraindicated for those who have had a heart attack within the past 3 months, or who have serious cardiovascular or cerebrovascular conditions such as unstable angina or stroke.

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Those with a history of gastric ulcer or duodenal ulcer, uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or epilepsy must consult a pharmacist or doctor before use.

If you experience palpitations, severe nausea, or hives/rash while using the product, stop and let us know.

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One more thing: even small amounts of nicotine can affect children. Be sure to store this product out of reach of children at all times.

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Q. Can I buy this without a prescription? Yes, it is an over-the-counter medicine, so you can purchase it directly at the pharmacy after consulting with a pharmacist.

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Q. Can't I spray it toward the throat? No. It must be sprayed inside the cheek or under the tongue, as it is absorbed through the oral mucosa. It is also important not to let it touch the lips and not to inhale while spraying.

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Q. Can I swallow right after spraying? Hold it in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing. Swallowing immediately doesn't give enough time for absorption through the mucosa.

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Q. I just bought it and nothing comes out. If you are using it for the first time or haven't used it for 2 or more days, press it into the air a few times to prime the pump until the mist comes out. It is not broken.

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Q. Can I use it together with a patch or gum? Using them together may result in overlapping nicotine amounts, so it depends on your individual situation. If you are currently using other smoking cessation products, let the pharmacist know and we can check to avoid overlap.

Quitting smoking is harder than it sounds. This spray alone won't do everything, but personally I think it can be helpful as a support tool you can reach for when a craving comes on.

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The most important points are: 'spray inside the cheek, do not swallow immediately, and stay within the recommended dose.'

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At Suwon Star Pharmacy, when you are choosing a smoking cessation aid, we look at your smoking habits as well as any medications you are currently taking and provide guidance accordingly. Feel free to stop by if you have any questions.

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This has been Dad Pharmacist. Thank you for reading.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not guarantee the efficacy or effectiveness of any specific product, nor does it promise the diagnosis or treatment of any disease. Appropriate usage may vary depending on an individual's health condition and current medications, so please be sure to consult a pharmacist or doctor before use.