Nicotine gum is an over-the-counter form of
NRT that delivers nicotine through mucous membranes in the mouth. When you buy nicotine gum, it comes with very clear instructions on how to use it and for how long, which we will summarize here, but be sure to follow the insert instructions yourself.
Chew a piece of the gum until there is a pepper-like taste in your mouth; at that point, you will park the gum against your cheek. Alternate chewing and parking the gum for between 20-30 minutes.
It has two strengths: 2 mg and 4 mg. It is recommended for between 1 and 3 months, and no longer than 6 months. You should not chew more than 20 pieces of gum in a single day.
Because food and beverages can cause problems with absorption, before chewing a piece, avoid acidic foods and drinks for at least 15 minutes.
Using the nicotine gum may cause one of more of the following
side effects:
Throat irritation
Sores in the mouth
Hiccups
Nausea
A racing heartbeat
A note on nicotine gum:
The
American Cancer Society notes that some people become dependent on the gum, and that as many as twenty percent of users continue using the gum a year after having
quit smoking.
Sponsored Links
Quit Smoking Support Groups
SupportGroups.com is for individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
Resources
Wikipedia.org:
Nicotine Gum
Nicorette:
Nicotine Gum
MedicineNet.com:
Nicotine Gum
Related Articles
Nicotine Cravings
Nicotine Withdrawal
Quit Smoking Help
Books
Amazon.com:
Nicotine Gum
