Major findings

Nicotine gum has been the subject of much research as an effective method to aid in smoking cessation. 1 found that of 3,923 special intervention participants in the Lung Health Study who were offered nicotine gum to help them quit smoking, 1,080 (28.9%) were using nicotine gum 12 months after entry into the study. This group is comprised of 33.6% sustained nonsmokers, 54.5% intermittent smokers, and 19.2% continuing smokers. The average use of gum at 12 months is 7.3 pieces per day. At 12 months, men were significantly more likely to be nonsmokers than women, but women were significantly more likely to use gum than men. Among the sustained nonsmokers, continuous gum users reported significantly more mild side effects than those who used gum intermittently, although there were no differences in moderate or severe side effects between the two groups. Overall, the rate of observed side effects was small. Factors associated with nicotine dependence were related to the use and amount of gum use at 12 months. 2 evaluated the effects of using several nicotine replacement treatments on self-reported withdrawal symptoms and side effects during 2-day periods of smoking cessation, with 5 days of ad lib smoking between cessation days. Participants (N = 18) experienced the following conditions: nicotine gum, 24-hr patch, 16-hr patch, 24-hr patch plus gum, double 24-hr patch, and no nicotine replacement. The present study found morning urge to smoke was greater during the 16-hr than during the 24-hr patch condition. Double-patch use resulted in significantly greater insomnia than the smoking baseline and 16-hr patch conditions. The no medication and gum alone conditions resulted in similar withdrawal symptoms, and both tended to result in greater reported withdrawal symptoms than the smoking baseline condition. There were no significant withdrawal symptom differences between the 24-hr, patch-gum, and double-patch conditions. The 24-hr and double-patch conditions were preferred by two thirds of the participants (6 each).

Reasons for side effects

Side effects from nicotine gum occur because nicotine is absorbed into the body. Nicotine acts on the brain, producing effects such as mood elevation and improved concentration, but it can also cause side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, nausea, and dizziness.

Common side effects

Mouth sores

Mouth sores can occur from using nicotine gum. 1 found that people who use nicotine gum continuously have reported more mild side effects than those who use gum intermittently.

Nausea

Nicotine gum can cause nausea. 2 suggests that nicotine gum can increase withdrawal symptoms compared to a baseline of smoking.

Dizziness

Nicotine gum can cause dizziness.

Headache

Nicotine gum can cause headaches.

Insomnia

Nicotine gum can cause insomnia. 2 found that morning urge to smoke was greater during the 16-hr than during the 24-hr patch condition. Also, double-patch use resulted in significantly greater insomnia than the smoking baseline and 16-hr patch conditions.

Indigestion

Nicotine gum can cause indigestion.

Measures for side effects

Mouth sores

If you are concerned about mouth sores, try chewing gum for shorter periods, switching gum types, and practicing good oral hygiene.

Nausea

If you feel nauseous, stop chewing gum and drink plenty of fluids.

Dizziness

If you are dizzy, stop chewing gum and rest.

Headache

If you have a headache, over-the-counter painkillers or cold compresses can be effective.

Insomnia

If you are concerned about insomnia, adjust the time you use nicotine patches or stop chewing gum before bed.

Indigestion

If you are concerned about indigestion, try reducing the amount of gum you chew or be mindful of your diet.

Comparison between studies

Commonalities of research

Both studies show that nicotine gum may be helpful in smoking cessation.

Differences in research

While 1 shows that the amount of nicotine gum used may affect the success of smoking cessation, 2 shows that the method of using nicotine gum may affect withdrawal symptoms.

Points to note about application to real life

Nicotine gum is one tool to help with smoking cessation, but it is not effective for everyone. Before using nicotine gum, it is important to consult with your doctor to confirm whether it is right for you. Also, when using nicotine gum, follow the instructions on the packaging and avoid excessive use. Do not use nicotine gum if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you find it difficult to quit smoking even after using nicotine gum, consult with your doctor to try other smoking cessation methods.

Limitations of current research

Research on the side effects of nicotine gum is still insufficient. Further research is needed.

Future research directions

Research is needed to examine the long-term effects of nicotine gum and the differences in effects between different types of nicotine gum.

Conclusion

Nicotine gum is an effective method to aid in smoking cessation, but side effects may occur. When using nicotine gum, it is important to understand the risks and benefits of side effects and consult with your doctor to confirm whether it is right for you.