This pharmacologic treatment should be an integral part of a global treatment program that could include supportive psychological, educational or other measures.

To produce its effect, nicotine must be absorbed through the mucous membrane in the mouth, not swallowed with saliva. Therefore, nicotine gum should not be chewed in the same way as unmedicated gum. How to use it:

• Chew the gum slowly until the taste becomes strong and/or you feel a tingling sensation.
• Then, place the gum between your cheek and jaw and leave it there for about 1 minute, or until the taste fades.
• Resume chewing the gum until the taste becomes strong again.
• Place the gum back between the cheek and jaw, ideally in a different spot.
• Repeat these steps for about 30 minutes. By this time, all the nicotine will have been released and the gum will no longer have any flavour and/or no longer produce a tingling sensation.
• Dispose of the gum in a waste receptacle out of the reach of children. Do not swallow.
• Do not chew more than one piece of gum at a time.

Generally, this medication is used only as needed. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed.

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may increase your appetite;
• it may cause dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
• it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;

• it may cause headaches;
• it may cause hiccups;
• it may increase your heart rate.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.