Nicotine Gum

What is Nicotine Gum

Nicotine gum is an aid to quit smoking.

• Chew and “park” it between your cheek and gums.
• This delivers nicotine to the body through the lining of the mouth.

How to Get Started

• Talk with your doctor before using the gum, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have heart issues.
• The gum is available over-the-counter.
• Some health plans may cover the cost.

Dose and Schedule

• The gum comes in two does: 4 mg and 2mg.
• If you smoke your first cigarette within 30 minutes of wake-up, start with 4 mg.
• If you smoke your first cigarette more than 30 minutes after wake-up, start with 2 mg.
• Use gum on a schedule, not just when you have a craving. Here is an example:
  • Weeks 1-6 >> every 1-2 hours
  • Weeks 7-9 >> every 2-4 hours
  • Weeks 10-12 >> every 4-8 hours

Side Effects
If you use the gum, you may get:

• Mouth sores
• Nausea
• Hiccups
• Jaw pain

Tips for Use

• Do not chew like bubble gum.
  • Chew it until you can taste the nicotine or feel a tingle in your mouth
  • Park it between your cheeks and gums
  • After about a minute, when the tingling is almost gone, chew it again
  • Repeat this process until the tingle is all gone (about 30 minutes)
    • Do not use more than 24 pieces per day
    • Do not eat or drink 15 minutes before and during use
      • Avoid acidic foods and drinks
        (like oranges, coffee, and soda)
      • These can make the gum less effective

See Your Doctor
There’s no magic medication to cure addiction to nicotine. However, these medications can increase your chances of quitting two- or three-fold. It’s important to discuss any medication with your doctor to be sure you’re using it safely, at the correct dosage and for the appropriate duration.