By puffing on the cartridge, nicotine vapor is extracted and absorbed through the lining of the mouth. Each cartridge delivers up to 400 puffs of nicotine vapor. It takes at least 80 puffs to obtain the equivalent amount of nicotine delivered by one cigarette.
Temperature affects the amount of nicotine that is extracted from the inhaler device.
At cooler temperatures, less nicotine is extractable. Specific information on this aspect is included in the product packaging inserts. Research on the nicotine inhaler has demonstrated that it nearly doubles quit rates when compared with placebo inhalers. The nicotine inhaler was made available by prescription in June 1998. Like any medication, the inhaler can have negative side effects.