Nicotine is an aid in the treatment of smoking cessation. This medicine helps reduce your cravings to smoke and also the withdrawal symptoms if you stop smoking.
This medicine is meant to be taken as part of a complete smoking cessation programme that should include patient education and counselling.
Take Nicotine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
The oral preparation of Nicotine is available as chewing gum and lozenge.
If you are taking the chewing gum, chew it until taste become strong and let it rest between the cheek and the gums. When taste fades, chew and repeat the routine for 30 minutes. Do not swallow it.
If you are taking the lozenge, suck the lozenge until the taste become strong, then lodge the lozenge between the gums and cheek. When the taste fades, start sucking it again. Repeat until the lozenge completely dissolves (about 30 minutes). Do not swallow. Avoid coffee, acidic drinks or soft drinks for 15 minutes prior to using the lozenge.
Take this medicine whenever there is an urge to smoke.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease e.g. chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm, high blood pressure, recent stroke or heart attack
- kidney disease
- liver disease
- diabetes
- stomach ulcer
- hyperthyroidism (a thyroid gland disorder)
- pheochromocytoma (a tumour of the adrenal gland)
- epilepsy (fits or seizures)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have regular monitoring of your cardiac status (heart rate and blood pressure) to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you how often you need to have them.
What lifestyle changes can I make to help myself quit smoking?
Do not give in to cigarette cravings even for one single puff alone. It is better to avoid groups or places which may encourage smoking. Engaging in sports or exercise and eating healthy foods are effective methods in countering such cravings.
Communicate with others and establish a support group. Always remind yourself about the benefits of quitting smoking e.g. reduced risk of developing diseases caused by smoking, improved general health, increased life expectancy.
Nicotine may cause any of the following side effects: irritability, abnormal dreams, headache, sore throat, nausea, mouth/throat and tongue irritation, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, wind and hiccups.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience signs and symptoms of nicotine toxicity such as severe headache, dizziness, confusion, hearing or visual disturbances, irregular pulse, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, cold sweat, and weakness.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform the doctor or pharmacist if you are on any other forms of Nicotine therapy or other medicines for smoking cessation.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks as these may decrease the absorption of Nicotine.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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