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Is Nicotine Gum Allowed in Assisted Living Facilities?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
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With over a decade of dedicated experience, Andrea Miller boasts an extensive background in healthcare writing and editing. Her expertise spans various facets of the healthcare industry, with a particular focus on nursing, senior care, Alzheimer’s disease, and public health. Andrea has also contributed her editorial talents to reputable publishers in the Philadelphia region, complementing her extensive freelance work.
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Dr. Brindusa Vanta is a health care professional, researcher, and an experienced medical writer (2000+ articles published online and several medical ebooks). She received her MD degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine, Romania, and her HD diploma from OCHM – Toronto, Canada.
Nicotine gum is allowed in Assisted living facilities. In fact, health care providers prescribe nicotine gum to help patients quit smoking and chewing tobacco. As with other medications, you should follow the facility’s guidelines and the label instructions for storage and safe use of nicotine gum.
How does nicotine gum work?
Nicotine gum works by reducing your cravings for nicotine, a chemical substance in cigarettes. It also helps soothe withdrawal symptoms that occur when you quit smoking.
Nicotine gum comes in 2-milligram and 4-milligram doses. Your health care provider will recommend the appropriate dose for you based on the amount you smoke and when you tend to have your first cigarette each day. They might also prescribe a nicotine patch for you to use at the same time.
How do you use nicotine gum?
You use nicotine gum by chewing it until it’s soft and then holding it between your teeth and inner cheek. For best results, chew the gum every hour or two for the first 6 weeks. Then, taper down to one piece every 2 to 4 hours for 3 weeks. At that point, cut down to one piece every 4 to 8 hours for the next 3 weeks.
Consider using nicotine gum along with a smoking cessation program that includes counseling or another form of support. Make sure to keep the gum out of reach of children and pets. Don’t swallow nicotine gum and limit yourself to no more than 24 pieces per day. As with any medication, consult with your doctor before using it, and ensure you follow the directions on the box or your doctor’s recommendations.
Is nicotine gum safe?
Nicotine gum is generally considered safe when used as directed for smoking cessation purposes. It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help with smoking cessation.
Some people who use nicotine gum experience side effects, such as mouth irritation, rash, irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and jaw issues. If you develop these symptoms, stop using the gum right away and call your healthcare provider.