Nicotine Lozenges Fact Sheet

Description of Product:	Nicotine lozenges look like hard candy and are placed in the mouth to dissolve slowly. The nicotine lozenge (typically a 2 mg or 4 mg dose of nicotine) releases nicotine as it slowly dissolves in the mouth.

Dosing:	Nicotine lozenges are available in 2 mg and 4 mg (per piece) doses. The 2 mg lozenge is recommended for individuals who smoke their first cigarette more than 30 minutes after waking up. The 4 mg lozenge is recommended for individuals who smoke their first cigarette 30 minutes after waking up or sooner. Smokers should use at least 9 lozenges a day in the first 6 weeks. Recommended duration of therapy is up to 3 months. No more than 20 lozenges should be used per day.

Side Effects:	Side effects may include: Nausea Hiccups Heartburn

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 a decision about using this medication. 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 using the nicotine lozenges. The nicotine lozenge should be used during pregnancy only if the associated benefits outweigh the associated risks. Heart conditions: Smokers who have serious arrhythmias or have chest pains due to coronary artery disease should use the nicotine lozenge with caution.

References: Information in the medication guide and fact sheets is from a variety of sources, such as product information guides; manufacturers' Web sites, medical Web sites, and articles in the medical literature, including Corelli RL & Hudman KS. Pharmacologic interventions for smoking cessation, Crit Care Nurs Clin N Am 2006;18, 39–51.