gums are available over the counter as well as by
prescription, depending on the strength (nicotine
DOSE). With all nicotine replacement products
nicotine OVERDOSEcan occur if the person com-
bines nicotine products or continues to smoke or
use other tobacco products (such as chewing
tobacco or cigars) while using a nicotine replace-
ment product. It is important to keep nicotine
replacement products, especially gums and
lozenges, out of the reach of children.
Other possible side effects include local irrita-
tion of the tissues, HICCUPS with the gum or
lozenges, and COUGHwith any nicotine replace-
ment product except transdermal patches. Some
people may develop dependence on the nicotine
replacement product, which is more of a risk with
nasal sprays and inhalers because these methods
deliver nicotine rapidly to the blood circulation in
similar fashion as cigarette smoking. The typical
course of smoking cessation therapy with nicotine
replacement is 12 to 16 weeks and should not
extend longer than 6 months.
See also ADDICTION; ANTISMOKING EFFORTS; SMOK-
ING AND HEALTH.298 Lifestyle Variables: Smoking and Obesity