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.
