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Nicotine lozenge

 
Drug Info: Nicotine lozenge

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What is nicotine lozenge?

NICOTINE (Commit®) helps people stop smoking. By replacing nicotine found in cigarettes, physical withdrawal effects are less severe. Nicotine lozenges are most effective when used in combination with a supervised stop-smoking program. Nicotine lozenge is for use over short periods of time (not more than 6 months). Generic nicotine lozenges are available.

NOTE: In some cases, Zyban® (also known as bupropion), a precription medication, is used together with nicotine to help people stop smoking. You should only use Zyban® with nicotine if these have been prescribed by your healthcare prescriber. Ask your prescriber for information and advice before purchasing any non-prescription nicotine products if you are currently on Zyban®. The use of the two medicines together requires special observation by your prescriber.

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

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• angina
• dental disease
• diabetes
• high blood pressure
• irregular heartbeat
• overactive thyroid
• pheochromocytoma
• previous heart attack
• sodium-restricted diet
• 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

How should I use this medicine?

Place nicotine lozenge in the mouth. Suck on the lozenge until it is completely dissolved. Do not swallow the lozenge. Follow carefully the directions that come with the lozenge. Use exactly as directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What drug(s) may interact with nicotine?

bupropion
• insulin
propoxyphene
propranolol
• theophylline
warfarin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking nicotine?

Always carry the nicotine lozenges with you. Do not smoke while you are using nicotine lozenges.

Brush your teeth regularly to reduce mouth irritation.

If you are a diabetic and you quit smoking, the effects of insulin may be increased and you may need to reduce your insulin dose. Check with your prescriber or health care professional about how you should adjust your insulin dose.

What side effects may I notice from using nicotine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• confusion
• damage to teeth or dental work
• dizziness
• fainting or lightheadedness
• fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations), chest pain
• headache
• hearing changes
• increased saliva
• nausea, vomiting
• seizures (convulsions)
• stomach pain
• vision changes
• weakness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• constipation or diarrhea
• flushing
• increased appetite
• irritability
• joint or muscle ache
• sleep disturbance
• sore throat or mouth

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. Store nicotine in a safe place where children and pets cannot reach it. If a child eats a nicotine lozenge, call your prescriber or health care professional or a poison control center at once.

Store below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). All nicotine products are sensitive to heat. Store in manufacturers packaging until ready to use. Protect from light. Throw away unused medicine after the expiration date.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

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