is nicotine gum dangerous
I finally quit smoking 2 and 1/2 years ago, half my family died from smoking related diseases. After about 6 weeks of cold turkey I was extremely depressed. I didnt want to do anything, I didn't want to get out of bed, basically I felt like If this is how life will always feel I don't care about it. At this point I broke down and got some nicotine gum. It really did the trick (I tried it before and hated it but after 6 weeks of nothing it was great). I felt balanced, my mood got better, I felt life was worth living again.
I still use the gum on a regular basis (10 4mg a day) I don't want to stress over quitting the gum because it is a lot healthier than smoking, and a lot better than depression. Is there any problems with long term use of nicotine gum? If not, why isn't it marketed as a healthier alternative, and sold cheaper?
Hi Jwadiak:
First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! It is wonderful that you quit and are so determined to stay off tobacco. Nicotine gum is controlled by the FDA and few companies make it. Therefore, they control the price (kind of like oil, right?). That being said, the FDA monitoring the manufacturing of the gum and other forms of nicotine guarantees that you will get predictable amounts in each dose. Gum purchased over the Internet and from companies overseas have no such safeguards in place for you.
Here is a link for information about nicotine gum, and other forms of nicotine delivery systems, such as the patch, etc.
The primary warnings about the gum are these: do not smoke during the use of the gum because you can actually overdose on nicotine. Chew gum 1 piece at a time. Chew intermittently for about 30 min, and do not eat or drink for 15ߙmin before chewing and during chewing.
Best of luck on your continued success!
Dr. Diana Walcutt
*Dr. Walcutt is a Psychologist. Dr. Walcutt's answers are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical or mental disorder. Any information given in a post about medication is for educational purposes only, and primarily to aid you in having an informed discussion with your own Psychiatrist/Physician.
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