The nicotine inhaler and the mouth/nasal spray are the two less-common NRT forms. They fill specific niches that gum and lozenges cannot.

The mouth or nasal spray

  • How it works: one or two sprays into the mouth or nose deliver nicotine that absorbs through the mucosa.
  • Onset: 5-10 minutes — the fastest NRT.
  • Best for: sudden, hard cravings that gum cannot catch in time.
  • Availability: OTC in the UK (Nicorette QuickMist); OTC or prescription in the US.
  • Side effects: brief throat or nose irritation in the first week; usually settles.

The inhaler

  • How it works: a plastic mouthpiece holds a cartridge; you draw on it, and nicotine absorbs in the mouth.
  • Onset: ~20 minutes.
  • Best for: users who miss the hand-to-mouth ritual as much as the nicotine.
  • Availability: prescription in the US and UK.
  • Note: not a vape substitute — nicotine goes to the mouth, not the lungs.

When to choose spray or inhaler over gum

  • Cravings come on faster than 10-15 minutes (spray).
  • You cannot use gum/lozenge (dentures, jaw problems, acid reflux).
  • The hand-to-mouth ritual is the hardest part (inhaler).
  • You are combining with a patch and need a fast rescue form.

Combining

Both pair well with a patch as part of combination NRT.