Nicotine gum can be effective in helping a smoker to stop smoking, but it has a few drawbacks. Though its side effects are mild, long term use of nicotine gum may harm the body.
What is Nicotine Gum?
It is a type of chewing gum which contains nicotine. It is used to quit smoking as well as the usage of chewing tobacco. It is available over the counter in the United States. A single nicotine gum piece contains about two to four milligrams of nicotine. This amount is approximately equal to the nicotine found in one or two cigarettes. Nicotine gum usage should only be begun after a doctor gives the green light. The doctor will tell you the dosage depending on your smoking habits.
Nicotine Gum Side Effects
When nicotine gum is not utilized according to the directions, there may be side effects. Other causes for side effects include allergic reactions, nicotine overdose, or existing medical conditions. Some prominent side effects of nicotine gum usage are outlined below:
- Sometimes, people may get addicted to using the gum itself. Thereby, they may end up replacing smoking addiction with nicotine gum addiction.
- Nicotine of any type or amount is not good for one’s body. Therefore, nicotine gum may not really be a safe alternative to cigarettes.
- Initial problems include saliva increase, mouth sores, jaw ache, indigestion and headache.
- Nicotine gum should be chewed using a proper process. If the chewing is too fast, the user may absorb nicotine too quickly leading to hiccups, vomiting, nausea and a feeling of lightheadedness.
- Nicotine overdose symptoms include seizures, blurred vision, severe dizziness, vomiting, nausea, irregular heartbeat and chest pain.
- Nicotine gum is an efficient method of quitting smoking. But, it should be done in the correct manner and the user should also be aware of the disadvantages and side effects. Besides, one must take care not to get addicted to chewing nicotine gum.
