Gel strips containing reactants capable of reacting to form nitric oxide are maintained separate until application. Upon application, the gel strips are placed in contact with one another, and may mix, or operate by diffusion, to deliver nitric oxide directly to the stream of breathing air of a user. Adhesive strips bonded to a substrate supporting the gel strips may provide for securing the nitric oxide generator directly to an upper lip of a user for breathing the nitric oxide through the nostrils.