Nicorette Gum 2mg (Nicotine)

Nicorette nicotine gum is a product that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms in people who quit smoking cigarettes. It releases small amounts of nicotine that the body absorbs through the mouth, supporting the transition away from cigarettes. The 2 mg strength is meant for people who usually smoke their first cigarette more than 30 minutes after waking up. The gum provides a controlled dose of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke.

Directions

Nicorette Gum 2 mg should be used by adults who smoke fewer than 25 cigarettes per day. The standard method involves chewing one piece of gum every 1 to 2 hours during the first six weeks, with a minimum of 9 pieces per day recommended. Users should not exceed 24 pieces in a single day.

The technique differs from regular chewing gum. A person should chew the gum slowly until they notice a peppery or tingling sensation, then park it between their cheek and gum to allow nicotine absorption. After the tingling fades, they can resume chewing until the sensation returns, repeating this park-and-chew process for about 30 minutes.

Week-by-week reduction schedule:

• Weeks 1-6: One piece every 1-2 hours
• Weeks 7-9: One piece every 2-4 hours
• Weeks 10-12: One piece every 4-8 hours

Avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 15 minutes before and during gum use, as this may reduce nicotine absorption. People who smoke their first cigarette within 30 minutes of waking may need the 4 mg strength instead. Those under 18 years should consult a doctor before starting nicotine gum therapy.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Nicorette is nicotine polacrilex.

Cautions

Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:

• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications currently being taken

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, use Nicorette only if your healthcare provider says it is appropriate. Quitting smoking without nicotine is best, but nicotine replacement is generally considered safer than smoking, even though risks to the baby are not fully known.

Nicorette may not be right for everyone, especially if you have heart disease, a recent heart attack, irregular heartbeat, uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, stomach ulcers, or a history of seizures.

Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using Nicorette if you take medications for depression or asthma, or if you are using another stop-smoking medication, since dose changes may be needed.

Keep Nicorette out of reach of children and pets, as even small amounts of nicotine can be dangerous. Wrap used gum in paper and throw it away safely, and contact Poison Control immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Recent heart attack (within the past 2 weeks)
• Serious underlying heart rhythm problems (life-threatening arrhythmias)
• Severe or worsening chest pain (severe angina pectoris)
• Active temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ)
• Known allergy or sensitivity to nicotine or any other ingredients in Nicorette

Side Effects

Common side effects of Nicorette include:

• Mouth or throat soreness
• Hiccups
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Heartburn
• Jaw discomfort
• Headache or dizziness
• Increased salivation

These side effects are usually mild and related to the nicotine content or how the gum is chewed.

More serious side effects can include irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or symptoms of nicotine overdose such as weakness, confusion, or fainting.

Severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, or a severe rash, have also been reported.

Seek medical attention if you develop chest pain, seizures, severe nausea or vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction while using Nicorette.