Indications 

Nicorette is a type of gum containing nicotine that assists individuals in quitting smoking. It is utilized in combination with a thorough program that includes changes in behavior, counseling, and encouragement. 

As a smoking cessation aid, Nicorette works by delivering nicotine to the body. This action diminishes the withdrawal symptoms encountered upon quitting smoking while also serving as a substitute for the oral activity to mitigate the urge to smoke. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Nicorette and every time you get a refill, thoroughly read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult your physician or pharmacist. 

Nicorette dosage depends on the individual’s daily cigarette consumption prior to quitting. It is recommended to refrain from eating or drinking for 15 minutes before or during gum use. 

For smokers who light their first cigarette more than 30 minutes after waking up, the 2 mg Nicorette is recommended, whereas those who smoke within 30 minutes should take the 4 mg gum. 

During the initial six weeks, chewing one gum every 1-2 hours is advised, followed by one gum every 2-4 hours for the next three weeks and one gum every 4-8 hours for the subsequent three weeks. If cravings persist, a second piece can be chewed within an hour.  

To enhance the probability of quitting smoking, it is recommended to chew a minimum of 9 pieces of Nicorette daily during the first 6 weeks. Avoid exceeding 24 pieces per day. 

To use Nicorette Gum effectively, use the “chew and park” method:  

1. Slowly chew the gum until you taste nicotine or feel a tingling sensation 
2. Park the gum between your cheek and gums, and stop chewing 
3. Resume chewing once the tingling subsides 
4. Repeat this process until most of the tingling sensation disappears, typically taking about 30 minutes. 
5. If necessary, chew a second piece within the hour, but avoid taking one piece after another consecutively to prevent side effects like hiccups, heartburn, and nausea. 

Finish the medication treatment within 12 weeks. Consult with your doctor if you require further use to prevent smoking. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the possible side effects of Nicorette. Tell your doctor promptly if any of them persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Mild dizziness 
• Upset stomach, burping, dry mouth, or hiccups 
• Soreness in mouth or throat 
• Changes in taste 
• Headache 

 Serious Side Effects 

• Fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest 
• Blisters inside your mouth 
• Issues with teeth or jaw 
• Wheezing, tightness in your chest, difficulty breathing 

Stop using Nicorette and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe symptoms listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Rare but severe allergic reactions may occur while taking Nicorette. Get emergency medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms: 

• Rash 
• Facial, tongue, or throat itching or swelling 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

The adverse effects of Nicorette listed here are not comprehensive. Tell your doctor promptly if you experience any other effects not mentioned above. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Nicorette, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, especially to any medications or ingredients present in Nicorette gum.  

To ensure Nicorette is safe for you, inform your physician of your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Blood vessel disease (e.g., stroke, Raynaud’s disease) 
• Dental/jaw issues (e.g., temporal mandibular joint disease (TMJ), bridges) 
• Diabetes 
• Heart disease (e.g., chest pain, irregular heartbeat, heart attack) 
• High blood pressure 
• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Esophagus problems (e.g., esophagitis) 
• Stomach/intestinal sores (peptic ulcers) 
• Certain adrenal problems (pheochromocytoma) 
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) 
• Seizures 

Nicorette may interact with other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Notify all your healthcare providers about current and future medication use. 

Some products that can interact with Nicorette include: 

• Medications for high blood pressure: 
  • Beta blockers like labetalol and prazosin 
• Bronchodilators/decongestants: 
  • Isoproterenol 
  • Phenylephrine 

Quitting smoking may affect the liver’s ability to eliminate certain drugs from the body, such as insulin, acetaminophen, caffeine, and others. Inform all healthcare providers and pharmacists about your decision to quit smoking. 

While using Nicorette, refrain from smoking or using other nicotine products such as chewing tobacco, snuff, nicotine patches, inhalers, or nasal sprays to avoid the risk of nicotine overdose. 

Smoking and nicotine can pose risks to a developing fetus. If you are pregnant, quitting smoking without a nicotine replacement product is ideal. If necessary, this medication should only be used during pregnancy when the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Consult with your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits. 

Breastfeeding mothers should not use Nicorette unless instructed by their doctor, as nicotine can be transferred to the baby through breast milk and cause harm. 

Nicorette can pose a health risk to children and pets if ingested. Store this gum out of their reach and properly dispose of used pieces by wrapping them in paper and placing them in the trash.