Nicotine chewing gum

What is this medicine?

NICOTINE (NIK oh teen) helps people stop smoking. This medicine replaces the nicotine found in cigarettes and helps to decrease withdrawal effects. It is most effective when used in combination with a stop-smoking program.

How should I use this medicine?

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

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• blisters in mouth

• breathing problems

• changes in hearing

• changes in vision

• chest pain

• cold sweats

• confusion

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• headache

• increased saliva

• nausea, vomiting

• stomach pain

• weakness

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

• diarrhea

• dry mouth

• hiccups

• irritability

• nervousness or restlessness

• trouble sleeping or vivid dreams

What may interact with this medicine?

• certain medicines for lung or breathing disease, like asthma

• medicines for blood pressure

• medicines for depression

What if I miss a dose?

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

Where should I keep my medicine?

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 medicine in the original container until ready to use. Throw away unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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 medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your health care provider for regular checks on your progress.

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