How to Use Nicotine Gum to Quit Smoking

Nicotine gum is a form of therapeutic nicotine designed to help people gradually reduce their nicotine intake and quit smoking.

Choosing the Right Gum

1. Determine Your Dosage: - 2mg gum: For those who smoke fewer than 25 cigarettes a day - 4mg gum: For those who smoke 25 or more cigarettes a day

2. Choose a Flavor: - Mint - Fruit - Cinnamon Surge (Nicorette only)

How to Use Nicotine Gum

1. Initial Preparation: - Do not eat or drink anything acidic 15 minutes before chewing the gum.

2. Chewing Technique: - Chew the gum slowly until a mild tingling sensation is felt. - Nestle it between your cheek and gum. - When the tingling stops, chew again and repeat the process. - Continue until all the nicotine is released (approximately 30 minutes).

3. Dosage Schedule: - Weeks 1-6: Chew one piece every 1-2 hours. - Weeks 7-9: Chew one piece every 2-4 hours. - Weeks 10-12: Chew one piece every 4-8 hours.

4. Precautions: - Do not chew nicotine gum quickly. - Avoid chewing more than one piece at a time. - Do not swallow the gum. - Do not use other nicotine replacement therapies or smoke while chewing the gum.

Storage and Disposal

1. Storage: - Keep nicotine gum in its original packaging. - Store at room temperature in a dark, dry place.

2. Disposal: - Wrap the used gum in paper and dispose of it in the trash. - Do not flush it down the toilet or place it where children or pets can access it.

Reducing Gum Usage

1. Gradually Decrease Chewing Time: - Reduce chewing time by 5-10 minutes each week.

2. Replace Nicotine Gum with Regular Gum: - Substitute one piece of nicotine gum per day with sugarless gum.

3. Switch to a Lower Dosage: - If using 4mg gum, transition to 2mg gum.

Nicotine Gum Side Effects and Precautions

Common Side Effects: - Mouth ulcers - Jaw muscle aches - Nausea - Headaches/dizziness

Serious Side Effects: - Irregular heartbeat - Seizure - Breathing problems - Symptoms of nicotine overdose

Consult a Healthcare Provider Before Use if: - You have a heart condition or disease - You have uncontrolled high blood pressure - You have a dental condition or disorder - You have an overactive thyroid - You are pregnant or plan to become pregnant

Tell Your Doctor About All Medications: - Share information about prescription and non-prescription medications you're taking.

Signs and Symptoms of Nicotine Overdose

Symptoms: - Dizziness - Upset stomach - Severe headache - Vomiting - Cold sweat - Drooling - Confusion - Blurred vision - Hearing problems - Weakness or fainting

If Overdose Occurs: - Stop using the gum/lozenge immediately. - Call your doctor or poison control center.

Keep Nicotine Gum Away From Children and Pets

Nicotine is poisonous to children and pets. Store nicotine gum in a safe place and contact poison control services in case of an overdose.

Potential for Nicotine Gum Addiction

Nicotine gum is used as needed, increasing the risk of abuse. Use exactly as directed and wean yourself off according to the recommended schedule.

Success Quitting With Nicotine Gum

1. Develop Will and Determination: - Quit smoking one day at a time. - Be patient with yourself.

2. Seek Support: - Time, patience, and support will aid in quitting. - Believe in yourself and commit to the process.