Nicotine Gum

Nicotine gum is not used like ordinary chewing gum. You chew it a few times and then “park” it between your cheek and the space below your teeth. The nicotine is absorbed mostly in your mouth.
Pros:
- Can be used regularly and when you feel withdrawal symptoms or urges coming on.
- Acts faster than nicotine patch or quit-smoking pills.
- Can be used with the patch to deal with breakthrough urges.
- You control how often you use it so you won’t get more nicotine than you want.
- May help delay weight gain associated with quitting.
- Comes in two strengths.
- May help substitute for a cigarette because you put it in your mouth.
- Available without a prescription (over-the-counter).
Cons:
- You have to remember to use it regularly and often.
- You should not eat or drink for 15 minutes before using or when it is in your mouth.
- Some people don’t like the taste or feel of nicotine gum.
- May be hard to use if you have dentures or other dental work.
- Requires learning how to use properly to work and to avoid side effects.
- Can cause stomach upset.
Possible Side Effects (and what you can do about them):
- Mouth or jaw soreness (don’t chew it like gum – learn more about how to use).
- Stomach discomfort, hiccups, and too much saliva (do not chew, suck or swallow; try lower dose or wait longer between doses).
- Light-headedness, nausea/vomiting, throat and mouth irritation from getting too much nicotine too fast (review use instructions – don’t chew like gum).
Nicotine Gum Precautions (If any of these apply to you, talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider before starting to use gum.):
- A heart attack in the last two weeks.
- A serious heart rhythm problem.
- Pain in your heart (angina) that is serious or getting worse.
- TMJ disease (bad pain in your jaw especially when eating).
- Could be pregnant or are breastfeeding.
- Less than 18 years old.
More precautions and general information are available about nicotine gum.