SMOKING CESSATION AMONG COPD AND CHRONIC-BRONCHITIS PATIENTS USING THE NICOTINE NASAL SPRAY

The purpose of this open-label pilot study was to assess the potential safety and efficacy of a nicotine nasal spray (NNS) to assist motivat ed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD [n=8]) and chronic bron chitis (CB [n=24]) patients in stopping smoking. Subjects consisted of 32 (16 male and 16 females) highly nicotine-dependent cigarette smoke rs. Intervention was ad lib use of NNS (up to 40 doses/day) and minima l smoking-cessation advice, The primary outcome measure was complete a bstinence (CA [no slips allowed]) from 2 weeks after start of treatmen t through 6 weeks, Self-reported smoking abstinence was validated by e xpired-air carbon monoxide at 3, 6, and 12 weeks, Results noted 46.9% (n=15), 40.6% (n=13), and 31.3% (n=10) at 3, 6, and 12 weeks, respecti vely, At Day 2, 100% of patients reported nasal and throat irritation, However, there were no serious adverse effects, and subjects adapted quickly to the NNS, In conclusion, the NNS appears to be an effective and safe aid in smoking cessation in COPD and CB patients when combine d with minimal supportive behavioral treatment; however, larger trials need to be conducted.