Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products have low doses of nicotine and can help minimize cravings and withdrawal symptoms after you quit smoking.1 There are a few types of NRT; two common options are nicotine gum and nicotine lozenges. Learn about the differences between these products so you can make an informed decision about what products are best for your quit.
Key Takeaways
-
Nicotine gum and nicotine lozenges are both FDA-approved tools to help manage nicotine withdrawal symptoms.
They work by delivering small, controlled doses of nicotine to reduce cravings and support your quit-smoking journey. -
The main difference lies in how they're used.
Gum is chewed and parked, while lozenges dissolve slowly in the mouth and are more discreet. -
Both Nicorette gum and Nicorette lozenges are effective nicotine replacement therapies.
Choosing the right option depends on your personal preferences, daily routine, and smoking triggers.
Who Should Use NRT?
NRT is for people who have a severe addiction to nicotine, the stimulant found in tobacco products and want to quit smoking.1 This addiction happens over time, as your body gets used to having nicotine in its system and goes through withdrawal when the chemical is no longer present.1
What Are Signs of Severe Nicotine Addiction?
Common signs may include:1
- Smoking multiple packs of cigarettes in a day
- Smoking even when you’re sick
- Waking up during the night to smoke
- Smoking first thing in the morning – right after you wake up
- Smoking to ease signs of withdrawal
How Do Nicotine Replacement Products Work?
NRT products like nicotine lozenges and nicotine gum work by replacing some of the nicotine you used to get from cigarettes so that withdrawal symptoms and cravings are more manageable after you quit.2
While nicotine is the active ingredient in these products, they supply nicotine without the hundreds of other harmful chemicals contained in cigarette smoke.2 These products are designed to allow you to gradually decrease the amount of nicotine you take in over a span of several weeks so that your brain can get used to functioning without nicotine.2
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved five different NRTs for sale over the counter.2 Nicotine gum and nicotine lozenges are two of the options.2
Nicotine Gum
Nicotine gum, like Nicorette®, gives you control over your quit. It’s different than other types of gum in that it allows you to regulate your nicotine intake throughout the day.
How Nicotine Gum Works
Unlike regular chewing gum, nicotine gum —like Nicorette®—is an over-the-counter product available in a range of flavors—like Fruit Chill, Cinnamon and Spearmint—and different strengths of nicotine to assist with your quit. Here’s how you can make this NRT option work for you:1,3
Choose the right dose, which depends on how much you’re currently smoking and when you have your first cigarette of the day.
Bite down slowly on the piece of gum until you feel a tingling sensation in your mouth.
Position the gum between your cheek and gums to let the nicotine absorb into your body.
Repeat this “bite and park” method until you no longer feel the tingling sensation – which indicates that that piece of gum is finished. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
During the first 6 weeks of your quit, use one piece of gum every 1-2 hours to help manage cravings.3
Pros of Using Nicotine Gum
According to the CDC there are a number of benefits to using a nicotine gum like Nicorette:3
- May help manage smoking-related oral fixations because you put it in your mouth
- Acts quicker than a nicotine patch or stop-smoking pills
- The nicotine is absorbed within your mouth
- Can be used regularly to help curtail an urge to smoke or withdrawal symptoms
- You have control over its use, so you have more control over the nicotine you’re getting
Cons of Using Nicotine Gum
While nicotine gum users may note that Nicorette Gum tastes different than chewing gum, it’s important to remember that this NRT is a medication.3 Other perceived cons may include:3
- There is a learning curve to its use and avoiding side effects
- May cause stomach upset
- Must remember to use it
- Shouldn’t eat or drink while using nicotine gum or for 15 minutes before use
Nicotine Lozenges
Nicotine lozenges, like Nicorette® Lozenges and Nicorette® Mini Lozenges are another nicotine replacement therapy option that allows you to control your nicotine intake. One of the great benefits of the lozenge is that it’s a quick and discreet way to fight cigarette cravings.
How Nicotine Lozenges Work
Nicotine lozenges may resemble small hard candies or cough drops. As they dissolve in your mouth, they slowly release nicotine which is then absorbed into your body.1 Here’s how to use them:1,4
- Start with the correct dose. There are two sizes available, and each size comes in two strengths (2 & 4mg of nicotine).
- Place the lozenge between your gums and cheek.
- Allow the lozenge to dissolve fully; do not chew, suck or swallow it. This should take about 30 minutes.
During the first six weeks of your quit, use 1 nicotine lozenge every 1-2 hours, and at least 9 lozenges per day.4 Make sure that you only use 1 lozenge at a time, and that you do not take them one right after the other.4
Pros of Nicotine Lozenges
There are a range of perceived benefits of using nicotine lozenges:4
- They’re discreet and easy to use – possibly easier to use than nicotine gum
- Lozenges act faster than nicotine patches
- Multiple sizes and strengths allow people to customize their quit
- Helps with oral fixation
- Individuals control how they use it
Cons of Nicotines Lozenges
Similarly, there are perceived drawbacks to taking these lozenges to quit smoking:4
- Should not eat or drink while using a lozenge, or for 15 minutes before using one
- May cause upset stomach
- Some people don’t like the taste
- Have to remember to use them
Key Differences Between Nicotine Gum and Lozenges
| Nicotine Gum | Nicotine Lozenge | |
|---|---|---|
| How to Use | “Chew and park” method | “Gradually dissolve” |
| Relief | Faster than a nicotine patch | Faster than a nicotine patch |
| Convenience | More control over when nicotine is released into your system | More discreet |
| Taste | More Nicorette flavor options | Using Coated Lozenges may help those who dislike the flavor |
Similarities Between Nicotine Lozenges and Gum
- Both nicotine gum and lozenges can be used to help lessen the uncomfortable withdrawal feelings that come with quitting smoking.2
- Both help address the oral fixation aspect of smoking.3,4
If you’re still wondering whether you should use Nicorette Gum or Nicorette Lozenges to help you quit smoking, the answer lies in personal preference. The best choice is the one that works best with your habits and keeps you committed to quitting smoking.
