Indications
Nicorette is a drug used in nicotine replacement therapy to help people quit smoking cigarettes. It contains an active ingredient called Nicotine Polacrilex. Nicorette works by providing a small amount of nicotine to the body, which helps to reduce cravings for cigarettes and other tobacco products. This allows people to gradually reduce their nicotine intake over time and eventually quit smoking.
The nicotine in tobacco is an important part of cigarette addiction, and by using nicotine polacrilex, smokers can wean their body off cigarettes by reducing withdrawal symptoms, including nicotine cravings. It can cause withdrawal symptoms such as craving tobacco, nervousness, irritability, headache, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating.
Uses and Dosage
Nicotine polacrilex is available in the form of gums. The usage instructions usually involve chewing the gum slowly until you feel a tingling sensation, and then positioning it between your cheek and gum. Do not eat or drink anything for 15 minutes before or during the gum's use and do not use it if the wrapper is open or damaged.
Nicotine polacrilex is typically used to help smokers reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with cigarette addiction. Follow the usage instructions carefully and speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach to quit smoking.
During the first six weeks of using nicotine polacrilex, use at least 9 pieces of gum per day. If you continue to experience a strong urge to smoke, you can use a second piece of gum within one hour of the first. To avoid side effects like hiccups, nausea, or heartburn, do not continuously use one piece of gum right after another. Most people typically use around 9 to 12 pieces of gum per day during the first month of treatment. Do not chew more than 24 pieces of gum a day to avoid potential negative effects.
Side effect
Common Side Effects of Nicorette (Nicotine Polacrilex - generic non-Rx):
- Changes in taste
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Upset stomach
- Burping or hiccups
- Headache
- Mouth or throat soreness
Serious Side Effects of Nicorette (Nicotine Polacrilex - generic non-Rx):
- Blisters inside your mouth
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Fluttering in your chest
- Problems with your teeth or jaw
- Tightness in your chest, trouble breathing
- Wheezing
Form and strength
Nicorette (Nicotine Polacrilex - generic non-Rx) is available in the following forms and strength:
Nicotine Polacrilex - generic non-Rx: Gum
- 2 mg
- 4 mg
Caution
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, use Nicorette on the advice of your healthcare provider. Nicotine replacement therapy products can have potential risks and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate product and dosage for your individual needs. Smoking or using tobacco products during pregnancy or breastfeeding can be harmful to both the mother and the developing baby, and quitting smoking is essential for maintaining good health.
- Nicotine can increase heart rate, and if you have a history of heart disease, recent heart attack, or irregular heartbeat, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any Nicorette products.
- Nicotine can increase blood pressure, and if you have high blood pressure that is not controlled with medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any Nicorette products.
- Be cautious regarding the use of Nicorette nicotine gum. It advises to wrap used gum pieces in paper and dispose them of in the trash, as they may contain enough nicotine to make children or pets sick if ingested.
- Nicorette products contain sodium, and if you have a sodium-restricted diet, consult with a healthcare provider before using any Nicorette products. If you experience any unusual symptoms while using Nicorette products, it is important to contact your healthcare provider right away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can use Nicorette?
Nicorette is intended for adults over the age of 18 who are trying to quit smoking or other tobacco products.
How long should I use Nicorette?
Nicorette products are generally used for 12 weeks or less, although some people may need to use them for longer periods of time.
Is Nicorette safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Pregnant or breastfeeding women talk to their healthcare provider before using any Nicorette products.
Can I use Nicorette products with other medications?
Talk to a healthcare provider before using Nicorette products with other medications, as some drug interactions may occur.
Resources
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a0206139-59c6-44c3-963c-8cb5f2d69075
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-75256-77/nicotine-polacrilex-buccal/nicotine-gum-buccal/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/leader-nicotine-polacrilex-gum-lozenge.html
- https://www.uspnf.com/sites/default/files/usp_pdf/EN/USPNF/revisions/nicotine_polacrilex_rb_notice.pdf
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