Abstract: A smoking substitute composition for application directly into the nose, consisting essentially of an aqueous solution of nicotine or a physiologically acceptable acid addition salt thereof, having a pH value of 2 to 6, containing 10 to 0.5% w/v of nicotine calculated as the free base, containing a nasally-acceptable thickening agent, and having a viscosity not less than 100 centipoise and optionally containing also a further ingredient selected from the group consisting of a nasally acceptable buffer, emulsifying agent, preservative, flavoring agent and antioxidant. A method of diminishing the desire of a subject to smoke comprising the step of administering to the subject a smoking substitute composition as set forth in the foregoing.