Nicotine Gum
Conditions Treated
Nicotine chewing gum is used to help people stop smoking cigarettes. It acts as a substitute oral activity and provides a source of nicotine that reduces the withdrawal symptoms experienced when smoking is stopped.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Nicotine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- mouth ulcers
- jaw muscle aches
- dizziness
- headache
- nausea
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- seizures
- heart rhythm disturbances
- difficulty breathing
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Nicotine gum is used by mouth as a chewing gum and should not be swallowed. Follow the directions on the label, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use nicotine gum exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often unless prescribed by your doctor. Usually treatment is started by using the 2-mg gum. Heavy smokers (those smoking more than 25 cigarettes per day) may start by using the 4-mg gum. Nicotine gum may be used regularly by chewing one piece of gum every 1 to 2 hours at first, or it may be used by chewing one piece of gum whenever you have the urge to smoke. Nicotine gum should be chewed slowly until you can taste the nicotine or feel a slight tingling in your mouth. Then stop chewing and place (park) the chewing gum between your cheek and gum. When the tingling is almost gone (about 1 minute), start chewing again; repeat this procedure for about 30 minutes. Do not chew nicotine gum too fast, do not chew more than one piece of gum at a time, and do not chew one piece too soon after another. If you are using the 2-mg gum, do not chew more than 30 pieces a day if you are under the supervision of a doctor or 24 pieces a day if you are not under the supervision of a doctor. If you are using the 4-mg gum, do not chew more than 24 pieces a day. Gradually begin reducing the amount of nicotine gum used after 2 to 3 months. This reduced use over time will help prevent nicotine-withdrawal symptoms. Suggested tips to help reduce your use of nicotine gum gradually include:
What Dietary Instructions Should I Follow
Avoid eating and drinking (especially acidic beverages such as coffee or soft drinks) for 15 minutes before and during chewing of nicotine gum to prevent reduced absorption of nicotine.
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before using nicotine gum, tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol), caffeine, diuretics ('water pills'), imipramine (Tofranil), insulin, medications for high blood pressure, oxazepam (Serax), pentazocine (Talwin, Talwin NX, Talacen), propoxyphene (Darvon, E-Lor), propranolol (Inderal), theophylline (Theo-Dur), and vitamins. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a heart attack, irregular heart rate, angina, ulcers, uncontrolled high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, pheochromocytoma, or a dental condition or disorder. do not smoke cigarettes or use other nicotine products while using nicotine gum because nicotine overdose can occur.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Nicorette®
- Nicorette® DS
Overdose
What To Do In The Case of Emergency
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.