Nicorette Gum is a nicotine replacement therapy for people who want to quit smoking. It’s an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine that helps in smoking cessation by reducing nicotine withdrawal symptoms. The gum can be purchased without a prescription from any pharmacy or drug store. In this article, we’ll discuss the uses, benefits, side-effects, and warnings of Nicorette Gum.
Uses
Nicorette Gum works by releasing nicotine into the bloodstream, equivalent to what smokers get through cigarettes. It helps the smokers, who are trying to quit smoking, overcome the craving for a cigarette, and nicotine. The gum is used as a part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program that includes behavioral modification, support, and counseling.
The gum is available in different strengths, from 2mg to 4mg, depending on the number of cigarettes a person smokes per day. People who smoke more than 25 cigarettes a day should use the 4mg gum, while those who smoke less than 25 cigarettes a day should use the 2mg gum.
Benefits
Nicorette Gum is a safe and effective way of quitting smoking. It helps in reducing the nicotine cravings, which helps smokers quit smoking and prevent relapse. Using the gum for 12 weeks can double the chances of quitting smoking for good. Nicorette Gum provides a controlled dose of nicotine that is gradually reduced over time, compared to the sudden dose of nicotine that is obtained from cigarettes.
Side Effects
Like any other medication, Nicorette Gum has side effects. Some common side effects of Nicorette Gum include nausea, indigestion, hiccups, and throat irritation. In rare cases, it can cause an irregular or fast heartbeat or an allergic reaction. People with underlying heart conditions, high blood pressure, or diabetes should consult a doctor before using Nicorette Gum.
Warnings
Nicorette Gum should not be used in conjunction with smokeless tobacco, cigarettes, or other nicotine-containing products. People under the age of 18 should not use this gum as it can have severe health consequences. Pregnant and nursing women should also avoid using this gum, as it can be harmful to the baby. Nicorette Gum is a short-term treatment for smoking cessation, and it must be used as a part of the comprehensive smoking cessation program.
While Nicorette Gum is a safe and effective way of quitting smoking, it is still a medication that can have serious side effects. People with a history of heart conditions, high blood pressure, or diabetes must consult a doctor before using the gum. The gum should be used as a part of the comprehensive smoking cessation program under the guidance of a physician.
FAQs
No, pregnant women should avoid using Nicorette Gum as it can be harmful to the baby. Nicotine can pass through the placenta and can have harmful effects on the fetus.
You can use Nicorette Gum for up to 12 weeks. After that, the dose of gum should be gradually reduced until you quit using it.
Nicorette Gum contains nicotine, which can be addictive. However, the use of Nicorette Gum is a short-term treatment for the addiction of cigarettes. Gradual reduction of dosage is required to quit the gum completely.
No, Nicorette Gum doesn’t cause weight gain. However, after quitting smoking, some people may experience weight gain. A balanced diet and exercise can help control the weight.
If you miss a dose of Nicorette Gum, you can chew a new piece of gum whenever you remember. However, you should avoid more than 24 pieces of Nicorette Gum in a day.
