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Smokefree South | Southern | Te Whatu Ora
Public Service, Other
Nicotine Gum
Strengths:
4mg and 2mg – to meet individual needs.
Using it:
- Use the gum 20 minutes before you would usually have a smoke.
- Chew the gum until you get a peppery taste, then rest it between your gum and cheek.
- Repeat this process every few minutes for 30 minutes then discard safely out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not chew continuously like normal gum.
- Can be used in combination with patches.
- Video about how to use Nicotine Gum is available below
Good points:
- Discreet product to use.
- Looks like regular gum.
- Available in mint and fruit flavour.
Things to think about:
- If not used as per instructions can cause indigestion.
- The taste can take some time to get used to.
- Avoid eating and drinking while using the product.
Cost and availability:
- FREE when enrolled with the Southern Stop Smoking Service
- Available on prescription from GP or from any community pharmacy at a cost of $5.00 per product (patch, gum, lozenge).
How long do I take it?
- 8 to 12 weeks.
Not suitable for:
- Children under the age of 12 years.
- People who have false teeth or braces as the gum may stick.
Further information:
- Okay to use if pregnant and breastfeeding but discuss risks and benefits with health professional or stop smoking coach.