Details

---

Nicotine is a direct acting cholinomimetic drug used as replacement therapy in patients to stop smoking.

Nicotine Polacrilex 2mg, 4mg gum is one of the methods used to deliver nicotine at low doses in motivated patients.

It is obtained from the dried leaves of Nicotiana tabacum and N rustica.

It is used in combination with other drugs to improve long-term abstinence rates.

Low dose nicotine is released through chewing the gum  which is absorbed by oral mucosa.

Mechanism of action: it acts by occupying α4β2 receptors in the central nervous system by slow absorption of nicotine resulting in reduced desire to smoke and pleasure of smoking.

It is available as Nicoretee in both International and Indian markets.

 

Uses

• Nicotine Polacrilex 2mg, 4mg gum is used in patients to stop smoking as replacement therapy..
• Nicoretee is also used to minimise nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

 

Dosage

• Usual dose of Nicotine Polacrilex 2mg, 4mg gum is 9 to 12 gums per day whenever there is an urge to smoke.
• Chew it till it starts tingling then place it between teeth and cheek. When it stops tingling, chew it again till it tingles and
• Do not chew more than one gum at a time to avoid overdose side effects.
• Do not swallow and after chewing wrap it in a paper before disposing.
• Final doses and duration of treatment are determined by the doctor on the basis of pre existing medical condition, ongoing medications and history of smoking.
• Doses are adjusted to maximise the effects.
• Nicoretee is stored at room temperature away from moisture.

 

Side effects

• Headache
• Jaw soreness
• Hiccups
• Dyspepsia
• Throat and mouth irritation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Lightheadedness
• Sweating
• Diarrhea

Precautions

• Nicoretee must not be used in temporomandibular joint disease in case of nicotine allergy.
• It must be used carefully in patients with dental or jaw problems, heart dysfunction, peptic ulcers, liver & kidney dysfunction, seizures, diabetes, hypertension , blood vessels problem and oesophagus disease.
• Nicotine Polacrilex 2mg, 4mg gum is also not recommended in pregnancy and breastfeeding women as it causes harm to both fetus and infants.
• Do not suddenly stop gum chewing, it will lead to withdrawal symptoms.
• Always tell the doctor about pre-existing medical conditions, ongoing medications, any history of allergic reaction, pregnancy ,future plan of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Consult the doctor immediately in case of serious side effects like severe dizziness,increased heartbeat, confusion, allergic reaction and swelling of hands & feet.