Do Not Smoke

Smoking and using nicotine replacement products can be dangerous because nicotine can build up to toxic levels. Since your goal is to quit smoking entirely, you should not smoke while using a nicotine replacement product. If you still have the urge to smoke, you may need an additional strategy to quit.

See Your Doctor

Patches, lozenges, and gums can be purchased over-the-counter, but the nasal spray and inhaler require a prescription. Your doctor will help you determine the appropriate dosage. Also, your doctor can prescribe additional smoking cessation aids and can refer you to a counselor, support group, or other services that may help you quit smoking. People who combine several quitting strategies often have the most success.

Do Not Overuse These Products

After quitting smoking, the goal is to end your use of the nicotine replacement products as well. Here are guidelines for how long you should use these products:

• Nicotine patch—Do not use longer than 6-12 weeks.
• Nicotine gum—Do not chew or use more than 24 pieces a day; do not use longer than 12 weeks.
• Nicotine lozenges—Do not use more than 20 lozenges a day; do not use longer than 12 weeks.
• Nicotine nasal spray—Do not use longer than 12 weeks.
• Nicotine inhaler—Do not use longer than 12 weeks.

If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding, Talk to Your Doctor

If you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor to select a safe method to quit smoking. Ask if nicotine replacement products are a good option for you.

Be Careful Around Children

Children can be seriously harmed by any amount of nicotine. Keep these products, including used patches, away from children.

Use With Adolescents and Older Adults

Nicotine replacement products are believed to be safe for adolescents and older adults. People with dentures, though, should avoid using nicotine gum because it could cause damage.

Manage Your Medications

Tell your doctor about all the medications you take. Some should not be taken when you are quitting smoking with nicotine replacement products, while others may require a different dosage level.

Be Cautious With Certain Conditions

The presence of other conditions may affect the use of nicotine replacement products. Tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, such as:

• Allergies
• Asthma or other breathing problems
• Common cold or a stuffy nose
• Dental problems
• Type 1 diabetes
• Heart or blood vessel disease
• High blood pressure
• Swelling of mouth, throat, or esophagus
• Skin irritation or disorder
• Liver disease
• Nose polyps
• Overactive thyroid
• Pheochromocytoma
• Sinus problems
• Stomach ulcer
• Recent stroke
• Temporomandibular joint disorder

Possible Side Effects

There are side effects associated with taking nicotine replacement products. The side effects you may experience will depend on the type of product you choose. For example, rash has been associated with using the patch while nasal irritation has been associated with using the nasal spray.

If you experience side effects, talk to your doctor. A different product may be recommended.

Symptoms of Nicotine Overdose

It is possible to overdose on nicotine when you use nicotine replacement products. Some symptoms of an overdose include:

• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Increased watering of the mouth
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Lightheadedness
• Disturbed hearing and vision
• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures