Another option used as a stop smoking aid, the stop smoking inhaler is an important component of the nicotine replacement therapy that is another choice for smokers to use. It is more effective than other aids because it produces the illusion of a smoke, a psychological thing that smokers respond to mentally. The smoker cannot only hold the inhaler like a cigarette but can also puff on it, which is a physical connection to the cigarette and the "smoking action" itself.

The inhaler usually consists of two parts -- a nicotine canister that stores about 10 mg of nicotine and a plastic mouthpiece that is used to release the puff into the mouth. Each puff releases a small amount of nicotine that is quickly absorbed into the blood stream, producing the feeling of well being similar to a smoke.

A smoker who is interested in quitting smoking can use these inhalers as an aid, while takings eight to ten puffs to replace the one puff of a cigarette. A lot of smokers enjoy this particular aid because of holding and smoking action that accompanies it. But the method of using the inhaler varies from person to person.

Some puff heavily on the nicotine inhaler, some space it out - a lot depends on the nicotine addiction and how much they really want to quit smoking. Normally, six to 12 puffs are enough during a day. However, much depends on the state of the smoker and the advice given by the physician.

Generally, several inhalers are needed during the course of therapy spanning a period of six months. The intake is highest in the first few months; after which it is slowly reduced to wean the smoker from the nicotine need.

Safety measures state that the inhaler should not be used by pregnant or lactating mothers. People suffering from asthma or cardiovascular diseases should opt for this treatment only under medical supervision.

The inhalers and the units should be properly disposed after the prescribed course is over as they can be poisonous for small children. Throat irritation and mild coughing may be experienced when the inhaler is used for the first time with side effects usually disappearing with prolonged use.

Smoking inhalers are to replace cigarettes, not to smoke while you are using them - this is very important when you are using an inhaler as an aid. Otherwise, the nicotine levels in your body would rise to alarming levels, reducing any chances of the inhaler producing a healthy effect.

Double loads of nicotine become almost like a poison in the system, even though nicotine is only one of 3,800 chemical substances found in cigarette smoke. A fatal dose of nicotine is approximately 40-60 mg, with up to 90% of nicotine is mainstream smoke being absorbed by the smoker.

More than 95% of cigarette toxicity is 70% asymptomatic or 25% mild with the mouth, pharynx, esophagus and stomach may show evidence of the caustic effect following an ingestion of nicotine. Respiratory stimulation and gastrointestinal hyperactivity are the two main symptoms of nicotine poisoning.