Medication guide
Nicotine Polacrilex Gum
- Generic name
- Nicotine Polacrilex Gum
- Common brand names
- Nicorette Gum
- Medication class
- Nicotine replacement therapy
Overview
Its medication class is Nicotine replacement therapy. Common uses include Smoking cessation for step-down nicotine support. Product forms and labels can differ, so follow the specific package instructions and ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional about individual questions.
How to Take it
- Route
- Transdermal or buccal nicotine product.
- Time of day
- Usually once daily patch; gum/lozenge every 1–2 hours as cravings occur.
- With food/water
- Patch is not food-dependent; gum/lozenges avoid eating 15 minutes before use.
- Preparation
- Apply patch to clean skin; chew and park gum or dissolve lozenge slowly.
- Safe dose
- Use one strength/device matching dependence level and smoking pattern.
- Max dose
- Do not combine multiple nicotine forms unless formally advised.
- Frequency
- Patch daily; gum/lozenge several times daily up to label ceiling.
- Other recommendations
- Rotate skin sites and store away from heat/sun; avoid smoking while on NRT.
Common uses
- Smoking cessation for step-down nicotine support
Common side effects
- Jaw soreness
- mouth irritation
- hiccups
- nausea
- metallic taste
- and heart palpitations
Important warnings
- Use as directed to avoid nicotine excess and GI upset. Do not chew continuously after tingling subsides; do not use with severe jaw disorders. Avoid combining with other nicotine replacement forms without professional plan.
General interactions information
Combining with other nicotine products increases side effects
Sources / references
- Nicotine Gum — MedlinePlus
U.S. National Library of Medicine
These references offer further reading. A source link does not establish that a clinician has reviewed every statement in this guide.
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