One of the forms of NRT is the nicotine gum. It is an effective way to quit smoking compared to cold turkey. It resembles a chewing gum that contains nicotine compound i.e. nicotine polacrilex. It leisurely releases nicotine on chewing. It is available in different strengths such as 4mg or 2mg. It can be purchased without having a prescription. A method that allows you to get rid without major symptoms.
Using nicotine gum:
It should be chewed for not more than 30 minutes when you feel the need to smoke. Chewing the gum gradually releases nicotine in your body suppressing the urge for smoking. But keep in mind not to chew more than 15 pieces of 4mg in a day. Here also your will power holds importance because the gum alone might not help you quit. Chew the gum slowly until it tastes strong enough and then stop. Keep the gum in the inside of your cheeks and then chew again when the taste fades. This would help the gum to last for about 30 minutes or so. Also do not eat or drink while chewing the gum as it reduces it effectiveness. Do not even smoke while using NRT else it could result in side effects of over dose of nicotine.
How effective is this method?
This method is quite effective compared to will power and doubles the chances of giving up smoking. People smoking about 20 cigarettes a day find it easy to start with nicotine gum.
How safe is this?
It is safe to use nicotine gum. Research revels that even youngster at the age of 18 can use this method to quit. However people suffering from heart disease or have an over active thyroid gland, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, stomach ulcers should consult a doctor before using NRT.
What is the advantage?
What is the disadvantage?
Using nicotine gum:
It should be chewed for not more than 30 minutes when you feel the need to smoke. Chewing the gum gradually releases nicotine in your body suppressing the urge for smoking. But keep in mind not to chew more than 15 pieces of 4mg in a day. Here also your will power holds importance because the gum alone might not help you quit. Chew the gum slowly until it tastes strong enough and then stop. Keep the gum in the inside of your cheeks and then chew again when the taste fades. This would help the gum to last for about 30 minutes or so. Also do not eat or drink while chewing the gum as it reduces it effectiveness. Do not even smoke while using NRT else it could result in side effects of over dose of nicotine.
How effective is this method?
This method is quite effective compared to will power and doubles the chances of giving up smoking. People smoking about 20 cigarettes a day find it easy to start with nicotine gum.
It is safe to use nicotine gum. Research revels that even youngster at the age of 18 can use this method to quit. However people suffering from heart disease or have an over active thyroid gland, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, stomach ulcers should consult a doctor before using NRT.
What is the advantage?
- Simple to use and is acceptable
- Availability of various strengths and flavors meets the needs of different smokers.
- Provides nicotine slowly and steadily.
- You can keep a check on the usage of gum each day.
- Its is less expensive and is also effective.
What is the disadvantage?
- Some may not like the taste.
- People who use dentures cannot use gum.
- Get hiccups.
- Chances of developing mouth ulcers or sores.
- Results in indigestion.
