You can be very happy that you are thinking about quitting smoking. It is not an easy decision. However, many people return to the habit due to the anxiety and cravings that come with trying to quit. But don't worry, there are ways to help you on this difficult journey. One such way is the Nicotine Lozenge.
Simply put, what is this nicotine lozenge?
This is a medicine that helps you quit smoking. We know that the main addictive chemical in tobacco is nicotine . When you smoke, your body gets nicotine and gets used to it. When you stop suddenly, your body craves it. That's when you feel withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and irritability.
This lozenge contains a controlled amount of nicotine. It delivers the nicotine your body needs gradually, without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes, reducing the cravings and discomfort of quitting.
Most importantly, this is most effective when used in conjunction with a stop-smoking program. It is more important to do this with the advice of a doctor than to do it alone.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you start using this lozenge, it is essential to inform your doctor about your health condition. Especially if you have any of the following medical conditions, be sure to tell them about it.
| Condition/Occasion | Why should you inform the doctor? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Nicotine can affect blood sugar levels. |
| Heart disease, heart attack, chest pain (angina) or irregular heartbeat | Nicotine can increase heart rate and blood pressure. |
| High blood pressure | This can cause blood pressure to increase further. |
| Lung diseases (including asthma) | Existing breathing difficulties may worsen. |
| Hyperthyroidism | Nicotine can affect thyroid hormone levels. |
| Adrenal gland cancer (Pheochromocytoma) | This is a very rare but serious condition. Nicotine can cause problems. |
| Seizures or a history of them | There is a risk that nicotine will aggravate the condition. |
| Stomach ulcers or other gastrointestinal problems | Nicotine can increase stomach acid secretion and cause problems. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | It is essential to talk to your doctor about this, as nicotine can be harmful to the baby. |
| Allergies to other medicines, foods or substances | It is important to know if you are allergic to nicotine or any other substance it contains. |
How exactly do I use this lozenge?
The way to use this is very simple, but it is very important to do it correctly.
1. Place the lozenge in your mouth and let it dissolve slowly .
2. After a while, switch from one side of the mouth to the other.
3. Most importantly: Do not chew or swallow this. It should dissolve slowly and be absorbed into the body through the mucous membranes of the mouth.
4. Read the instructions on the medicine package carefully. Use only as directed by your doctor, for the prescribed number of times. Never use more than the prescribed amount.
Warning: If you think you have taken too much of this, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not take this as a small matter.
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, nicotine can interact with some medications. Specifically:
- Medicines for respiratory diseases like asthma
- Blood pressure medication
- Medication for depression
Therefore, give your doctor a complete list of all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements). Also, tell your doctor if you use alcohol or other substances.
What are the possible side effects of using it?
Like any medication, this one can cause side effects in some people. Let's take a look at what they are, and what to do if they happen.
| Side Effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergies (skin rash, itching, swelling of lips/tongue/face) | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Heart palpitations | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Increased blood pressure | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Dizziness | If it persists, talk to the doctor. |
| Headache | If it persists, talk to the doctor. |
| Heartburn | If it persists, talk to the doctor. |
| Hiccups | If it persists, talk to the doctor. |
| Discomfort/burning in the mouth or throat | If it persists, talk to the doctor. |
| Trouble sleeping | If it persists, talk to the doctor. |
How should I store this medicine? Let's also think about safety.
This is very important. The amount of nicotine in this lozenge can be very harmful, even fatal, to a small child or pet. Therefore,
- Always keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius), away from light and heat.
- Dispose of the used lozenge safely as directed on the package.
- Discard expired medication without using it.
Quitting smoking is not something that can be done overnight. It is a journey. By getting help like this, talking to your doctor, and taking this journey systematically, you can definitely succeed.
Take-Home Message
- The nicotine lozenge is a tool to help you on your journey to quitting smoking, not a magic bullet.
- Before using this, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications you are taking.
- Never chew or swallow the lozenge. Let it dissolve slowly.
- This medicine can be extremely harmful to small children and pets, so keep it safely out of their reach.
- If you experience any serious side effects or overdose, seek medical advice immediately.
- Be proud of your efforts to quit smoking. Don't hesitate to seek support along the way.
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