Using Nicotine Replacement
Therapies
Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs)
include nicotine gum, nicotine patch, nicotine nasal
spray and the nicotine inhaler.
Some facts about nicotine replacement
therapies:
-
- Keep nicotine replacement
products, including those that have been used and
thrown away, out of the reach of children and
pets. Even very small amounts of nicotine can
cause them serious illness.
- Do not smoke, chew tobacco, use
snuff or other nicotine-containing products while
using any of the nicotine replacement therapies.
It is possible to get an overdose of nicotine.
Signs of nicotine overdose include headaches,
dizziness, upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea,
mental confusion, weakness or fainting.
- Depending upon how much you used
per day or week, you may still experience some
withdrawal symptoms, or you may feel some side
effects from the nicotine, such as headache,
nausea, upset stomach, dizziness or disturbing
dreams.
- If you have a medical problem such
as heart disease or high blood pressure, consult
your doctor before beginning any nicotine
replacement therapy, even one that is available
over-the-counter (OTC).
- If you take any medications,
especially drugs for asthma or depression, speak
to your doctor before taking NRTs. The dose of a
medication may need to be adjusted because, with
or without nicotine replacement therapy, the body
changes when one stops smoking.
- Use of behavioral, psychological,
environmental and social support strategies are
highly recommended in conjunction with the use of
nicotine-containing devices.
- Remember that nicotine
substitution is a treatment aid and not a
complete treatment for nicotine addiction.
- If you are pregnant or breast-feeding,
speak to your doctor about the benefits and risks
of using a nicotine replacement product.
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