Online Guide to Quitting
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MEDICATION GUIDE
NICOTINE GUM FACT SHEET
Description of Product: |
Nicotine gum is chewed to release nicotine that is absorbed through tissue inside the mouth. The user chews the gum until it produces a tingling feeling, then the gum is placed (parked) between the cheek and gum tissue. Nicotine gums have varied concentrations of nicotine (typically 2mg or 4mg) to allow the user to reduce the amount of nicotine in their system. |
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Dosing: |
For individuals smoking 25 or more cigarettes a day: 4 mg For individuals smoking fewer than 25 cigarettes a day: 2 mg Weeks 1 to 6: one piece every 1 to 2 hours Weeks 7 to 9: one piece every 2 to 4 hours Weeks 10 to 12: one piece every 4 to 8 hours |
Side Effects:
| Side effects may include:
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Precautions:
| This fact sheet was created to give you a general understanding of this medication. Please note that this fact sheet may not provide you with all the information you need to make the decision to use this product. Always read the instructions on the package carefully and talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a severe medical problem, talk with your doctor before starting any new medication. |
Special Precautions:
| Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Smokers who are pregnant or breastfeeding should try to quit first without assistance from nicotine gum. Nicotine gum should be used during pregnancy only if the associated benefits outweigh the associated risks. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ): Nicotine gum may not be appropriate for smokers who have been diagnosed with TMJ or have bridges or dentures. |
References: Information provided on the Medication Guide and Fact Sheets was obtained from a variety of sources, such as product information guides; manufacturers' Web sites, medical Web sites, and articles in the medical literature, including Corelli, R.L. & Hudman, K.S. (2006) Pharmacologic interventions for smoking cessation, Crit Care Nurs Clin N Am, 18, 39-51.
