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Nicotine Gum Fact Sheet

Description of Product:
Nicotine gum is chewed to release nicotine that is absorbed through the skin 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 amounts of nicotine (typically 2 mg or 4 mg) to allow users to reduce the amount of nicotine in their body.
 
Dosing:
Nicotine gum (both regular and flavored) is available in 2 mg and 4 mg (per piece) doses. The 2 mg gum is recommended for individuals smoking fewer than 25 cigarettes a day. The 4 mg gum is recommended for individuals smoking 25 or more cigarettes a day. Smokers should use at least one piece of gum every 1 to 2 hours for the first 6 weeks. Recommended duration of therapy is up to 3 months. No more than 24 pieces of gum should be used per day.
 
Side Effects:
Side effects may include:
  • Hiccups
  • Upset stomach
  • Jaw pain caused by chewing
 
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 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.

Heart conditions: Smokers who have serious heart conditions should consult their doctor before using the nicotine gum.

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.


NCI NIH HHS USA.gov