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Nicotine replacement (patch, gum, lozenge)

Brand names: NicoDerm CQ, Nicorette, Nicotrol

Nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges ease cravings and withdrawal so you can quit smoking or vaping. Using a patch plus gum or lozenges works best.

Brand namesNicoDerm CQ, Nicorette, Nicotrol
Type of medicineQuit-smoking aid
Prescription?Over the counter (patch, gum, lozenge); prescription (inhaler, nasal spray)
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

They give nicotine without the smoke's harmful chemicals. Free help: 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

What it's used for

  • Quitting smoking or vaping

How to take it

  • Patch: put on a new one each morning on clean, hairless skin; move to a new spot each day. Remove at night if it causes vivid dreams.
  • Gum: chew until it tingles, then 'park' it between cheek and gum; repeat for about 30 minutes.
  • Lozenge: let it dissolve; don't chew.
  • Follow the step-down schedule on the package.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Skin irritation (patch)
  • Vivid dreams (patch)
  • Hiccups, jaw soreness, or upset stomach (gum)
Call 911A child swallowed gum, lozenges, or a patch, even a used one. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Call your provider todayFast or irregular heartbeat
Call your provider todaySigns of too much nicotine: nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or weakness

Warnings

  • Ask a provider first if you've had a recent heart attack, irregular heartbeat, or severe chest pain.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Quitting smoking can raise levels of some medicines, like clozapine, olanzapine, and theophylline.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Try to quit without medicine first; talk with your provider about using it in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.