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Nicotine Lozenge Overview

Available over the counter, available in 2 and 4mg tablets and should not be chewed.

Nicotine Lozenge

The nicotine lozenge contains nicotine to help provide relief from the effects of nicotine withdrawal. The lozenge is placed in the mouth (not chewed).

How to start

  • Stop smoking before beginning nicotine lozenge use.
  • Two doses are available: 2 mg and 4 mg.
  • Use the 2-mg lozenge if you SMOKE YOUR FIRST CIGARETTE AFTER 30 MINUTES OF WAKING.
  • Use the 4-mg lozenge if you SMOKE YOUR FIRST CIGARETTE WITHIN 30 MINUTES OF WAKING.
  • Your healthcare provider may recommend a higher dosage if you have failed to quit while using the 2 mg lozenge.
  • Use no more than 20 lozenges daily.

How to use the Nicotine Lozenge

  • Place the lozenge in your mouth. Allow the lozenge to slowly dissolve (about 20-30 minutes).
  • Try not to chew or swallow the lozenge or pieces of the lozenge (if broken).
  • Move the lozenge from one side of their mouth to the other until completely dissolved.
  • Do not eat or drink 15 minutes before using or while the lozenge is in the mouth.

How long should I use the Lozenge?

  • To improve chances of quitting, use at least 9 lozenges per day for the first 6 weeks.
  • Do not use more than one lozenge at a time or continuously use one lozenge after another since this may cause hiccups, heartburn, nausea or other side effects.
  • Do not use more than 5 lozenges within 6 hours and do not use more than 20 lozenges per day.
  • You should stop using the nicotine lozenge at the end of 12 weeks.

Reactions:

  • You may need to switch from the 2mg lozenge to the 4mg lozenge, or use the 2mg lozenge more often if exhibiting withdrawal symptoms, such as: restlessness, irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, or depressed mood.
  • If you are using the 4mg lozenge and are experiencing nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, or palpitations, you should switch to the 2mg lozenge.

Precautions:

If you fall into the following categories it is important you consult your doctor before using lozenges:

  • Patients who have had a recent heart attack, severe or worsening angina, or life threatening arrhythmias (disturbance in the rhythm of the heartbeat).
  • As with other nicotine products, the nicotine lozenge should be used during pregnancy only if there is an increase in the likelihood of smoking cessation. The benefits of quitting outweigh the risks sometimes associated with the use of nicotine replacement.
Only consider using lozenges if:
  • you are motivated to quit.
  • you are not pregnant.
  • you have stopping smoking.