In people who are trying to stop smoking, nicotine addiction is frequently treated by using controllable replacement sources of nicotine. Commit, an oral lozenge that is placed inside the cheek for up to 30 minutes, works similarly to nicotine patch and gum products by providing 2 or 4 mg doses of nicotine on a regular and decreasing schedule to reduce cigarette cravings. The user's dosage of Commit lozenges is determined based on the timing of the day's first cigarette. Side effects in the mouth and throughout the body are possible with continued normal use or overuse.
Mouth Irritations
Even with normal use, Commit lozenges may cause a warm sensation in the mouth. In addition, Commit can irritate the throat and mouth lining, especially with early treatment that requires a greater number of lozenges each day. Coughing may occur with Commit use; Commit users should avoid drinking anything within 15 minutes of using lozenges, which may contribute to coughing from a dry throat.
Digestive Problems
Because Commit lozenges contain nicotine as a drug product, they can cause side effects in the body when nicotine is absorbed through the mouth lining or swallowed with saliva. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea have been reported with Commit use. Lozenges should be consumed one to two hours apart to reduce digestive side effects, particularly heartburn and hiccups. Less frequently, constipation and gas occur with Commit lozenge use.
Overdose Symptoms
Nicotine overdose is possible when Commit lozenges are misused, such as by chewing lozenges, by drinking with lozenge use, by using Commit and continuing to smoke or by using more than 20 lozenges in one day. Early side effects of nicotine overdose mimic digestive side effects of nausea and vomiting. In addition, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, diarrhea and weakness occur. Nicotine overdose is considered a medical emergency that requires Poison Control consultation.
