NCIt definition : A nasal spray composed of an aqueous solution containing the alkaloid nicotine with
nicotine replacement activity. Upon administration of the spray into the nostrils,
nicotine is taken up from the nasal mucosa into the bloodstream. Although nicotine
binds to nicotinic cholinergic receptors at the autonomic ganglia, adrenal medulla
and at neuromuscular junctions as well, the binding of nicotine to the receptors in
the central nervous system (CNS) appears to be responsible for the addictive nature
of nicotine. Binding to CNS nicotinic acetylcholine receptors causes the release of
the neurotransmitter dopamine which appears to be responsible for the addiction of
nicotine. Administration of nicotine may prevent nicotine craving and may help with
the withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking cessation.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A nose spray that contains a small dose of nicotine, which enters the blood
by being absorbed through the lining of the nose. This helps stop nicotine cravings
and relieves symptoms that occur when a person is trying to quit smoking. A prescription
is needed for nicotine nasal spray.;