Nicotine gum is another nicotine replacement choice. It’s similar in appearance and texture to a regular gum, and usually fruit, mint, or fresh mint flavored. The difference, of course, is the nicotine. Any time you experience a craving, pop in a “stick” of gum, and nicotine is released into your body, killing the craving.
This is generally one of the less expensive quit smoking products. Nicotine gums are available without a prescription. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting on a nicotine product. While a gum containing nicotine is generally harmless, it may not be suitable for certain medical conditions – diabetes, dental disease, heart problems, high blood pressure, etc. It’s also not recommended for women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant as well as for breastfeeding mothers.
For best results, nicotine gum should be chewed slowly, waiting until a peppery feeling occurs and then stopping. The gum is then tucked into the cheek. When the tingle is no longer noticeable, repeat the process for at least thirty minutes to be certain all the nicotine has been released into the body.
During the first four weeks of the program, the average smoker uses between ten and twelve pieces daily. Daily use should not exceed two dozen pieces. As with the nicotine inhalers, a nicotine gum should not be used for an extended period of time, certainly not beyond six months. Nor should it be used if you’re smoking, since the potential for nicotine poisoning arises.
There are two sizes of nicotine gum. One has two milligrams of nicotine while the other has four milligrams. The larger dose is potentially addictive, so unless your health care provider suggests using it, which would be for very heavy smokers only, it’s best to use the lighter dose. There are side effects, though they’re uncommon. You may feel dizzy or weak while chewing nicotine gum. Some people experience headaches or stomach aches. You may experience damage to your teeth or dental work.
