Nicotine lozenges are a useful way to quit smoking, as long as you use them properly. The effect lasts approximately 1-2 hours, with a duration of 20-30 minutes for each lozenge. Proper technique and following a regimented 12-week program can significantly increase your odds of permanently quitting smoking. Be kind to yourself, and remember that the road to quitting smoking is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the little victories along the way. The question that arises is nicotine gum safe? The following blog includes all the details you need on this topic.
What Is Nicotine Gum?
Nicotine gum is a type of nicotine replacement product used to calm nicotine cravings. It allows the user to inhale nicotine without many of the harmful byproducts of burning tobacco. This non-prescription medication is available in a variety of strengths (commonly 2 mg and 4 mg) and helps reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms and smoking urges during smoking cessation.
The Benefits of Nicotine Gum
A Helpful Tool for Quitting Smoking
Nicotine gum has been proven in clinical trials to substantially raise the chances of quitting successfully when used as directed. It works by releasing nicotine through the lining of the mouth, and it helps to relieve cravings and to counteract the behavioural side of smoking.
Less Exposure To Toxic Chemicals
Tar and carbon monoxide are not present in nicotine gum, as well as the thousands of other harmful chemicals that are released when tobacco is burned. This is what makes the steam ring “pure” and delivers your nicotine in a much SAFER way.
Dosing Precision And Control
You can choose how much nicotine to take and when based on your needs. Users can pace their nicotine consumption by controlling how frequently they chew, enabling them to ease their addiction over time. Your quitting strategy can be tailored when you choose to use both.
Quick Relief from Cravings
Nicotine gum has the added benefit of delivering relief from withdrawal symptoms relatively fast, as it takes only 5–10 minutes for nicotine to enter your bloodstream if you’re using it as you should.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Side effects are usually mild and short-lived, such as:
- Mouth or throat irritation
- Jaw stiffness from chewing
- Hiccups or stomach upset
- Headaches
- More salivation
These effects can also be caused by chewing incorrectly or by taking lots of gum at once, all too quickly.
Cardiovascular Considerations
Though considerably safer than smoking, nicotine gum can raise your heart rate and blood pressure for a short time. If you have heart disease, a recent heart attack, or a serious arrhythmia, you should talk to your doctor before using it.
Risk of Dependence
Dependence on Nicotine GumAlthough uncommon, some users may become dependent on nicotine gum and use salted versions of it for longer than the 12 weeks that are recommended. However, even this dependence is much less harmful than continuing to smoke.
Not Suitable for Everyone
Nicotine gum should not be used by:
- Pregnant or nursing mothers (without medical supervision)
- People with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
- Those with certain stomach problems, such as peptic ulcers
How to Use Nicotine Gum Safely
Use “Chew and Park” Tactic:
Slowly chew the gum until you taste a peppery flavour, then stop chewing and park it between your cheek and gum. Nicotine is well absorbed.
Select the Appropriate Strength:
Usually, heavy smokers (more than 25 cigarettes a day) take up to 4mg, while light smokers take 2mg.
Avoid food and drink.
Do not eat, drink (except water) or smoke 15 minutes before or during the use of the gum, as this interferes with the absorption of nicotine.
Wean Away: Aim to taper for 12 weeks, stepping down both strength and frequency.
The Bottom Line: Is Nicotine Gum Safe?
It is generally agreed upon by people who have tried to quit smoking and the healthcare professionals that support them that nicotine gum is safe and far healthier than continuing to smoke, so I hold my tongue about this one. The potential risks of nicotine gum pale in comparison to the well-established hazards of combustion, the act of which is responsible for millions of deaths globally every year.
Nevertheless, although nicotine gum contains nicotine, it isn’t a confection; let’s be clear about that. It should be taken as prescribed and used in conjunction with a quit plan that might include behavioural therapy/counselling. The objective is to be free of nicotine completely, ultimately.
Your doctor also may be your best source of advice on whether to use nicotine gum if you have certain health concerns or conditions. And keep in mind: If you take any step to quit smoking, it’s a good step for your future health. Any step toward quitting smoking is a positive one for your long-term health.
