There are a couple of schools of thought related to nicotine replacement as a “stop smoking aid.� Some experts think that a small amount of nicotine will work when taken in combination with a smoking cessation program. Others believe that success is higher if the amount of nicotine replacement more closely matches the amount taken in with smoking. Nicorette gum contains either 2 mg or 4 mg of nicotine. If a person smokes up to 24 cigarettes a day, the recommended dose of Nicorette is 2 mg every one to two hours for the first week. The dose is gradually reduced over time. People who smoke more than 24 cigarettes a day should use the 4 mg Nicorette.
Nicotine is a stimulant that briefly increases energy and awareness. If a person is constantly tired, it may be that more nicotine is needed, at least temporarily. If the exhaustion persists, I advise not increasing the dose beyond recommended amounts without speaking with a physician. Nicotine does have side effects even in otherwise healthy adults.
The fatigue may be related to some other issue besides smoking cessation. This is another reason for consultation with a physician.
