Nicotine Gums

Nearly everyone has heard of nicotine gums. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), including nicotine gum, is usually a doctor’s first choice in aiding patents that have not been successful with smoking cessation and stop smoking therapy. Nicotine Gum is possibly the most popular nicotine replacement product on the market.

As with any drug, nicotine gums have a set of benefits and risks. The nicotine in the gum can help curb cravings when they strike. It also may be a good add on therapy for those heavy smokers using the patch and finding they still don’t have the strength to overcome the wave of cravings when they are at their strongest. It’s important to note that you should not use any nicotine replacement product, including gum, without the consent of your doctor. This is especially true if you are using more than one type of nicotine replacement product.

There are several drawbacks to using nicotine gums. Some of the side effects specific to gum may include upset stomach upset, nausea, heat burn, diarrhea, sore throat, burning in the mouth and bleeding gums. You also may experience side effects such as severe allergic reactions, including hives, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, mouth, lips or tongue; heart related symptoms such as fast or irregular heartbeat, pounding in the chest; mouth, teeth or jaw problems; abnormal dreams, blurred vision and anxiety; nausea, vomiting and stomach upset, using any nicotine replacement products, including nicotine gums. Any new or changing symptoms should be immediately reported to your doctor as they may indicate a serious condition. Long term users of nicotine gums may find they erode tooth enamel leading to tooth loss. Hair loss is commonly reported as well with long term users of gums and lozenges. Some recent reports are linking nicotine gum with mouth cancer.

The main drawback is that nicotine gums have nicotine in them. Nicotine is a poison, toxic to the body, and it is addictive. Some users of nicotine gums report that the gum is more addictive than cigarettes. It is not meant for long term use, however many people who become addicted to the gum use it long term. If you feel you are becoming addicted to nicotine gum, call your doctor and develop a game plan to quit all types of nicotine.

References:
http://www.askapatient.com/viewrating.asp?drug=18612&name=NICORETTE&page=1
http://www.drugs.com/sfx/nicorette-side-effects.html
http://www.healtharticles101.com/nicotine-gum-side-effects-vs-benefits/
http://whyquit.com/pr/120108.html

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