Women of childbearing potential/Contraception in males and females: In contrast to the well-known adverse effects of tobacco smoking on human conception and pregnancy, the effects of therapeutic nicotine treatment are unknown. Thus, whilst to date no specific advice regarding the need for female contraception has been found to be necessary, the most prudent state for women intending to become pregnant is to be both non-smoking and not using NRT.
Whilst smoking may have adverse effects on male fertility, no evidence exists that particular contraceptive measures are required during NRT treatment by males.
Pregnancy: Smoking during pregnancy is associated with risks such as intra-uterine growth retardation, premature birth or stillbirth. Stopping smoking is the single most effective intervention for improving the health of both the pregnant smoker and her baby. The earlier abstinence is achieved the better.
Nicotine passes to the foetus and affects its breathing movements and circulation. The effect on the circulation is dose-dependent. Therefore, the pregnant smoker should always be advised to stop smoking completely without use of nicotine replacement therapy. The risk of continued smoking may pose greater hazard to the foetus as compared with the use of nicotine replacement products in a supervised smoking cessation programme. Use of Nicorette QuickMist by the pregnant smoker should only be initiated after advice from a healthcare professional.
Lactation: Nicotine passes freely into breast milk in quantities that may affect the child even with therapeutic doses. Nicotine should therefore be avoided during breastfeeding. Should smoking cessation not be achieved, use of Nicorette QuickMist by breastfeeding smokers should only be initiated after advice from a healthcare professional. Women should take the product just after having breastfed and leave as long a time as is possible (2 hours is suggested) between taking the mouth spray and the next feed.
Fertility: Smoking increases the risk for infertility in women and men. In vitro studies have shown that nicotine can adversely affect human sperm quality. In rats, impaired sperm quality and reduced fertility has been shown.