Nicotine Gum

What is this medication?

NICOTINE (NIK oh teen) helps you quit smoking. It reduces cravings for nicotine, the addictive substance found in tobacco. It may also help reduce symptoms of withdrawal. It is most effective when used in combination with a stop-smoking program.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): NICOrelief, Nicorette

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease, angina, irregular heartbeat or previous heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Lung disease, including asthma
• Overactive thyroid
• Pheochromocytoma
• Seizures or history of seizures
• Stomach problems or ulcers
• An unusual or allergic reaction to nicotine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Chew this gum in the mouth. Do not swallow the gum. Follow the directions on the product label. Use exactly as directed. When you feel an urgent desire for a cigarette, chew one piece of gum slowly. Chew until you feel a slight tingling in your mouth. Then, stop chewing and place the gum between your cheek and gum. Wait until the taste or tingling is almost gone, then start chewing again. Continue chewing in this manner for about 30 minutes. Slow chewing helps reduce cravings. Do not use more often than directed.

This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. Do not use more than one piece of gum at a time.

What may interact with this medication?

• Certain medications for lung or breathing disease, like asthma
• Medications for blood pressure
• Medications for depression

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress.

Talk to your care team about what you can do to improve your chances of quitting.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Heart palpitations—rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• Increase in blood pressure

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Hiccups
• Irritation inside the mouth or throat
• Trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This product may have enough nicotine in it to make children and pets sick. Keep it away from children and pets. After using, throw away as directed on the package.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from heat and light. Keep this medication in the original container until ready to use. Throw away unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.