Product Description
Find answers to common questions about our product, including dosage, storage, and side effects.
- This medication aids in quitting smoking by replacing the nicotine found in cigarettes, as nicotine is a key component of cigarette addiction.
- When you cease smoking, your nicotine levels decrease rapidly, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as tobacco cravings, nervousness, irritability, headaches, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating.
- Quitting smoking is challenging, and your chances of success are highest when you are prepared and committed to quitting.
- Nicotine replacement products are part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program that includes behavior modification, counseling, and support.
- Smoking is linked to lung disease, cancer, and heart disease, making quitting one of the most significant steps you can take to improve your health and extend your lifespan.
- If you’re using the over-the-counter version, carefully read all directions on the product package before using. If prescribed by your doctor, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before starting and each time you refill. Any questions should be directed to your doctor or pharmacist.
- Refrain from eating or drinking for 15 minutes before or during the use of the gum. Do not use if the individual wrapper is open or damaged.
- Begin using this medication on your designated quit (smoking) day. When you feel the urge to smoke, chew a piece of gum very slowly until it tingles, then place it between your cheek and gum until the tingling subsides. Once it stops, resume chewing until the tingling returns. Most of the nicotine will dissipate after 30 minutes. Do not use more than one piece of gum simultaneously. You can also use this product regularly or when experiencing the urge to smoke.
- The optimal dose for you is the one that reduces the urge to smoke without causing nicotine-related side effects. Your dose will be adjusted based on factors such as your smoking history and medical condition.
- For the initial 6 weeks, use at least 9 pieces of gum daily. If you still have a strong urge to smoke, you may use a second piece within 1 hour. Avoid continuously using one piece right after another to prevent side effects such as hiccups, nausea, or heartburn. Most individuals consume about 9 to 12 pieces per day during the first month. Do not exceed 24 pieces per day.
- After quitting smoking and determining the optimal dose and schedule, maintain that dose. Begin reducing your dose after 6 weeks or as instructed by your doctor until you no longer smoke and no longer require nicotine replacement. Complete the 12-week treatment regimen. If you still feel the need to use this medication after treatment, consult your doctor.
- Abruptly stopping this medication may result in withdrawal symptoms such as tobacco cravings, nervousness, irritability, or headache. To mitigate withdrawal, your doctor may gradually reduce your dose. Withdrawal is more likely if you’ve used nicotine for an extended period or in high doses. Notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly if you experience withdrawal symptoms.
- Some individuals may not succeed in quitting smoking on their first attempt. It may be necessary to discontinue use and attempt again later. Many individuals who fail initially find success in subsequent attempts.
- Possible side effects of using this medication may include mouth, teeth, or jaw problems, headaches, heartburn, sweating, or diarrhea. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, discontinue use and promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.
- Common nicotine withdrawal symptoms may occur upon quitting smoking and can include dizziness, anxiety, depression, or trouble sleeping, among others.
- Chewing the gum too quickly can lead to lightheadedness, dizziness, hiccups, nausea, vomiting, or trouble sleeping. If these effects arise, chew the gum more slowly.
- Your doctor has prescribed this medication believing that the benefits outweigh the risks of side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
- Serious side effects are more likely if you continue smoking while using this product. Cease use and promptly inform your doctor if you experience severe dizziness, mood changes, numbness/tingling in hands or feet, or swelling in hands/ankles/feet.
- Stop using this medication immediately and seek medical assistance if you encounter very serious side effects such as chest pain, confusion, severe headache, rapid/irregular heartbeat, difficulty speaking, or weakness on one side of the body.
- While rare, a severe allergic reaction to this drug may occur. Seek medical help right away if you notice symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), or difficulty breathing.
- Note that this is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you experience any other effects not mentioned above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
- Before using this product, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to nicotine or have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other issues. Discuss with your pharmacist for more details.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have conditions such as blood vessel disease, dental/jaw problems, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, kidney disease, esophagus problems, stomach/intestinal sores, certain adrenal problems, overactive thyroid, or seizures.
- Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Nicotine and smoking can harm an unborn baby. If you are pregnant, attempt to quit smoking without using nicotine replacement products if feasible. During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Nicotine from smoking and from this medication can pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Smoking near an infant can also harm them. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
| Generic name: | Nicotine Polacrilex – generic non Rx |
|---|---|
| Formulation: | Gum |
| Strength(s): | 2mg, 4mg |
| Quantities Available: | 120 |
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