Abstract

An inhaler is provided for dispensing a pressurized substance, on demand, directly into the mouth of the user. The inhaler in one embodiment operates to dispense the substance when the user exerts a suction on one end thereof, and to terminate the dispensing process when the suction is removed. The inhaler may simulate a cigarette for the self-administration of tobacco or tobacco-like, or other substances, collectively to be referred to herein as nicotine. It is also contemplated that the inhaler may operate in response to other control effects exerted manually or by the mouth of the user, which control effects may be mechanically, thermally, chemically or electrically initiated.Embodiments similar in appearance and utility to cigarettes, dispensing tobacco or tobacco-like products may be termed "nicarettes" denoting the generically new form of tobacco they represent. No limitation or definition of the scope or spirit of this invention is intended by the presentation of this herein coined word.