Nicotine lozenges are an over-the-counter medication used as a nicotine replacement therapy. Popular brands include Commit, Thrive and the store-brand versions from Target and Walgreens. They are a smoking cessation aid in either 2mg or 4mg strengths that relieve nicotine withdrawal symptoms. The "Drug Information Handbook" explains that patients who have their first cigarette within 30 minutes of waking should use the 4mg strength and all others the 2mg strength. Many common side effects are typical with the use of the nicotine lozenges.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects that may occur with nicotine lozenges. If these are severe or bothersome, the patient may be using a 4mg lozenge, then may need to switch to the 2mg lozenge, explains NYSmokeFree.org. If the nausea and vomiting are still persistent, the person should speak with a physician about possibly switching to another nicotine replacement therapy.
Insomnia
Insomnia or trouble sleeping may occur in people while using the nicotine lozenges. Less than 5 percent of patients experience insomnia, reports CommitLozenge.com. Nicotine usually causes this side effect, so the patient should avoid sucking on the lozenges before going to sleep.
Chnages in Behavior
Nicotine lozenges may cause changes in behavior that may be nicotine withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms occur because of the low dose of nicotine and include irritability, anxiety, restlessness, inability to concentrate, and mood changes. If the patient is on 2mg dose, he should switch to the 4mg dose.
Headache and Lightheadedness
Patients may experience a headache while using nicotine lozenges. This may also be due to nicotine withdrawal but should subside as the body adjusts to lower levels of nicotine. Lightheadedness is a side effect that may occur if the dose is too high. The patient should switch from the 4mg dose to the 2mg dose if he experiences lightheadedness.
Heart Palpitations
Heart palpitations, or a fast heart rate, may occur with nicotine lozenges. Patients with an irregular heart beat or severe chest pain should not use any form of nicotine replacement. Precaution should be taken in patients with a history of high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and those who had a heart attack, notes the "Drug Information Handbook." Patients must seek advice from a health care professional before starting any over-the-counter medication to ensure the she is safe.
Other Side Effects
Hiccups, coughs and flatulence are also common side effects, and may be persistent and bothersome. The patient should report any side effects to a physician and decide whether to switch to another medication. Heartburn is also typical with nicotine lozenges and must be reported to a physician. Patients with a history of peptic ulcer or esophagitis must use the nicotine lozenges with caution.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook 15th Edition"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2007
- Commit: Frequently Asked Questions
- NYSmokeFree.com: Nicotine Lozenge
