Description
Indications
Nicorette Original is a nicotine gum used to assist individuals in their efforts to stop smoking as part of a comprehensive smoking cessation strategy, which may include support groups, counseling, or behavior modification methods.
As a smoking cessation aid, Nicorette Original works by delivering a controlled therapeutic dose of nicotine, gradually absorbed by the body. This action helps regulate daily nicotine intake, alleviating cravings, anxiety, frustration, irritability, and restlessness associated with quitting smoking. In addition, it acts as a substitute oral activity, diminishing the urge to smoke.
Uses and Dosage
Prior to using Nicorette Original, carefully review the included user guide for comprehensive instructions and important details. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Nicorette Original is available in two strengths, with the recommended dosage determined by the individual’s daily cigarette consumption prior to quitting.
For those who smoke their first cigarette within 30 minutes of waking, a 4mg gum dose is recommended, whereas individuals who smoke after 30 minutes of waking should take the 2mg dose.
Nicorette Original treatment can be started on the selected quit day and lasts for a 12-week duration.
For the first 6 weeks, take one gum every 1-2 hours, then switch to every 2-4 hours for the next 3 weeks, and finally transition to every 4-8 hours for an additional 3 weeks.
To address intense cravings, you may want to have a second piece of gum within an hour. To improve the likelihood of success, chew at least 9 pieces of gum each day during the initial 6 weeks.
For effective use of Nicorette Original, follow the chew-and-park method as follows:
- Chew the gum slowly until you notice the nicotine taste or feel a tingling sensation in your mouth.
- Stop chewing and position the gum between your cheek and gums.
- Once the tingling diminishes, resume chewing.
- Repeat this process until the tingling fades, typically within 30 minutes.
Abstain from consuming food or beverages 15 minutes prior to or while chewing the gum.
To achieve optimal outcomes, closely follow the guidelines outlined in the Nicorette Original user guide or as directed by your doctor if this gum is prescribed.
Take only one piece of gum at a time. Avoid taking another piece immediately afterward to decrease the chances of unwanted reactions such as hiccups, nausea, or heartburn. Moreover, ensure not to have more than 24 pieces of gum in one day.
Complete the entire 12-week Nicorette Original regimen. If you find that you need continued use of this gum beyond the treatment period to prevent smoking, consult your healthcare provider.
Avoid stopping this medication abruptly, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms. Gradually reducing the dosage will help minimize withdrawal effects.
For individuals with a history of prolonged or high-dose nicotine use, there is an increased risk of withdrawal. If withdrawal symptoms occur, promptly notify your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Upset stomach, burping, dry mouth, or hiccups
- Soreness in the mouth or throat
- Alterations in taste
- Headache
Tell your healthcare provider if these common side effects continue or worsen.
Serious Side Effects
- Fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in the chest
- Blisters in the mouth
- Dental or jaw-related problems
- Wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty in breathing
Discontinue the use of Nicorette Original and notify your healthcare provider promptly should any of the above-listed severe side effects occur.
Allergic Reactions
Rarely, Nicorette Original may trigger severe allergic responses. If you observe any of the signs of a serious allergic reaction, seek immediate medical assistance:
- Facial, lips, tongue, or throat swelling
- Hives
- Breathing difficulty
This list does not include all potential side effects of Nicorette Original. If you experience any unlisted effects, tell your healthcare provider.
Cautions
Prior to using Nicorette Original, consult a doctor if you have any known allergies, especially to any of the components in this gum.
Seek advice from your doctor prior to using Nicorette Original if you have any medical conditions, particularly if you have a history of:
- Blood vessel disease (e.g., Raynaud’s disease, stroke)
- Dental or jaw problems (e.g., bridges, temporomandibular joint disease – TMJ)
- Diabetes
- Heart issues (e.g., chest pain, heart attack, irregular heartbeat)
- High blood pressure
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Esophagus problems (e.g., esophagitis)
- Stomach or intestinal sores (peptic ulcers)
- Adrenal problems (pheochromocytoma)
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Seizures
Seek advice from your healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine if Nicorette Original is safe to use alongside any other medications, particularly if you take prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
Make sure to notify your healthcare team and pharmacists of your intention to stop smoking, as it may impact the metabolism of specific medications by your liver, including:
- Acetaminophen
- Caffeine
- Insulin
- Oxazepam
- Pentazocine
- Propoxyphene
- Propranolol
- Theophylline
- Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline/imipramine)
- Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
Do not smoke or use any nicotine products while using Nicorette Original to reduce the risk of nicotine overdose.
During pregnancy, aim to stop smoking without depending on nicotine replacements. If needed, discuss with your doctor, and use Nicorette Original only when necessary.
Before breastfeeding while using Nicorette Original gum, seek advice from a healthcare professional, as the nicotine in the gum may be passed on to breast milk and could have negative effects on a nursing infant.
Safely discard used Nicorette Original by wrapping it in paper and disposing of it away from children and pets. The remaining nicotine in the used gum may present a health hazard to children or pets.
