Nicotine Gum

Available without a prescription, nicotine gum is a product that can help people quit smoking cigarettes. It works by releasing a controlled amount of nicotine as it is chewed, which can help decrease nicotine cravings and other effects of withdrawal that many people experience when they stop smoking. Potential side effects include belching, heartburn, and hiccups.

What Is Nicotine Gum?

Nicotine gum (Nicorette® Gum) is a nonprescription medication approved to help people stop smoking (known as smoking cessation). It helps reduce the nicotine withdrawal symptoms that occur when people try to quit.
 
(Click What Is Nicotine Gum Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, nicotine gum can cause side effects. However, not everyone who uses the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of the nicotine gum include but are not limited to:
 
  • Hiccups
  • Belching
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Nausea.
 
(Click Nicotine Gum Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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