Nicotine (Systemic).

 
In the U.S. -- 
     Commit 
     NicoDerm CQ 
     Nicorette 
     Nicotrol 
 
In Canada -- 
     Habitrol 
     Nicoderm 
     Nicorette 
     Nicorette Plus 
     Nicotrol 
     Prostep 
     Smoking cessation adjunct 
Description 

Nicotine (NIK-o-teen), in a flavored chewing gum, a lozenge, or a skin patch, is used to help you stop smoking. It is used for up to 12 weeks as part of a stop-smoking program. This program may include education, counseling, and psychological support.

As you chew nicotine gum or suck on the nicotine lozenge, nicotine passes through the lining of your mouth and into your blood stream. When you wear a nicotine patch, nicotine passes through your skin into your blood stream. This nicotine takes the place of nicotine that you would otherwise get from smoking. In this way, the withdrawal effects of not smoking are less severe. Then, as your body adjusts to not smoking, the use of the nicotine gum is decreased gradually until use is stopped altogether. For most brands of patches, the strength of the patch you use will be decreased over a few weeks until use is stopped. If you are using the brand of patch that is available in only one strength, use is stopped after the treatment period indicated on the label.

Children, pregnant women, and nonsmokers should not use nicotine gum or patches because of harmful effects.

Nicotine gum or lozenge is available without a prescription. Some nicotine patches are available without a prescription. Nicotine is available in the following dosage forms:

 
Oral 
 
     Chewing gum (U.S. and Canada) 
 
     Lozenge (U.S.) 
Topical 
 
     Transdermal (stick-on) skin patch (U.S. and Canada) 
Before Using This Medicine 

If you are using this medicine without a prescription, carefully read and follow any precautions on the label. For nicotine gum, lozenges, and patches, the following should be considered:

 
Allergies -- 

Tell your healthcare professional if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to nicotine. Also tell your healthcare professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes. If you plan to use the nicotine patches, tell your healthcare professional if you have ever had a rash or irritation from adhesive tape or bandages.

 
Pregnancy -- 

Nicotine, whether from smoking or from the gum, lozenges, or patches, is not recommended during pregnancy. Studies in humans show that miscarriages have occurred in pregnant women using nicotine replacement products. In addition, studies in animals have shown that nicotine can cause harmful effects in the fetus.

 
Breast-feeding -- 

Nicotine passes into breast milk. It may be necessary for you to stop breast-feeding during treatment.

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