Nicorette Gum (nicotine polacrilex, Habitrol) Side Effects, Addiction & Dosage

What brand names are available for nicotine gum?

Nicorette Gum, Nicorelief, Nicorette, Thrive

Is nicotine gum available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Do I need a prescription for nicotine gum?

No

What are the uses for nicotine gum?

• Nicotine gum is used to control nicotine withdrawal symptoms
  and cravings associated with
  smoking cessation.

What are the side effects of nicotine gum?

Side effects include:

• Increase heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Oral irritation
• Dental pain

• Hiccups

• Heartburn

• Flatulence (intestinal gas)
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Cough
• Sore throat

• Nausea

• Indigestion

Possible serious side effects include:

• Risk of harm to the fetus
• Transfer of nicotine dependence

What is the dosage for nicotine gum?

• Light smokers (less than 25 cigarettes per day): Use 1 piece of 2 mg gum
  every 1 to 2 hours for weeks 1 to 6; then use 1 piece of 2 mg every 2 to 4 hours
  for weeks 7 to 9; then use 1 piece of 2 mg gum every 4 to 8 hours for weeks 10
  to 12.
• Heavy smokers (more than 25 cigarettes per day): Use 1 piece of 4 mg gum
  every 1 to 2 hours for weeks 1 to 6; then use 1 piece of 4 mg every 2 to 4 hours
  for weeks 7 to 9; then use 1 piece of 4 mg gum every 4 to 8 hours for weeks 10
  to 12.

Individuals should not use more than 24 pieces of nicotine gum per day. It is
not recommended to eat or drink 15 minutes before or while chewing the gum. It
is not recommended to use nicotine gum for more than 12 weeks.

Which drugs or supplements interact with nicotine gum?

• Nicotine gums may cause
  abnormal heart rate and rhythm in
  patients maintained on
  anti-arrhythmia medications.
• Patients with
  high blood pressure (hypertension),
  insulin-dependent
  diabetes, or coronary artery
  disease should use nicotine gum with caution or consult a doctor before use.

What is the average weight gain for those who quit smoking?
See Answer

Is nicotine gum safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

• There are no adequate studies of nicotine to determine safe and
  effective use in
  pregnant women.
• It is not known if nicotine enters
  breast milk; therefore,
  it is best to be cautious before using it in
  nursing mothers.

What else should I know about nicotine gum?

What preparations of nicotine gum are available?

Nicotine gum is available in 2 and 4 mg strengths.

How should I keep nicotine gum stored?

Nicotine gums should be stored at room temperature between 20 C
and
25 C (68 F and 77 F).