How do Nicotine Polacrilex Lozenges and Mini-lozenges work?

Both types of lozenges are a form of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). They deliver nicotine to your body, temporarily relieving nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms when you quit smoking. Unlike cigarettes, nicotine lozenges and mini-lozenges help you regulate, control and gradually reduce your body’s craving for nicotine.

Both lozenge forms do not contain tar or carbon monoxide and, therefore, don’t present the same medical risks as cigarettes. However, the lozenges still contain nicotine, which is the addictive ingredient in cigarettes. For some people, the nicotine in the lozenge can occasionally cause mouth or throat irritation, headaches, nausea, hiccups, upset stomach or dizziness.

The sole reason for using an NRT is to decrease and slowly eliminate your need for nicotine while you control cravings. So, as directed under “Starting the Program,” you should gradually reduce the amount of lozenges or mini-lozenges you take as the program progresses.

 

When I stop smoking and start using an NRT, how will I feel?

NRTs help reduce cravings but be prepared for some nicotine withdrawal symptoms. They can begin as soon as you stop smoking and are normally strongest during the first three or four days. For some people, any of the following may occur:

  • Unexpected craving or urges for cigarettes
  • Anxiety, irritability, restlessness, mood changes, nervousness
  • Drowsiness
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Increased appetite and weight gain
  • Headaches, muscular pain, constipation, fatigue

 

Is an NRT just swapping one type of nicotine addiction for another?

Although NRTs do contain nicotine, there is probably less nicotine in your daily dose of lozenges than in your cigarettes. NRTs are designed to give you enough nicotine to help you combat physical withdrawal symptoms so you can cope with the mental side of quitting smoking. Also, since the nicotine from the lozenges goes into your bloodstream more slowly, it produces less of the effects of nicotine that people find rewarding. In fact, when used as directed in the 12-week program, nicotine lozenges and mini-lozenges gradually wean you off your dependence of both nicotine and cigarettes.

 

Can NRTs do any harm?

Some people should not use this product without talking to their doctor, such as those with heart disease or people taking prescription medicine for asthma or depression. Check the Warnings page for more information.

You may also experience side effects such as hiccups, mouth or throat irritation, heartburn or other stomach problems such as nausea, especially if the lozenge is chewed or swallowed. In any case, Nicotine Polacrilex Lozenges and Mini-lozenges do not contain tar, carbon monoxide, (omit comma) or any other toxins present in cigarette smoke

 

Will I put on weight?

In the first couple of months after quitting smoking, some people may put on a few pounds. However, overall, you will be healthier and feel better. You can always tackle your weight by changing your diet and increasing the amount you exercise once you have gotten through the difficult but important part of quitting.

 

Does taking Nicotine Polacrilex Lozenges cost more than smoking?

If you normally smoke one and a half packs a day, your total cost of using Nicotine Polacrilex Lozenges or Mini-Lozenges during the 12-week period is about the same as smoking. The good news is, after you’ve finished the quit program, all the money you would normally spend on cigarettes is now savings.

 

What if I have a cigarette and start smoking?

The only difference is the size of the lozenge and the vial the lozenges come in. The mini-lozenge’s vial is smaller and more compact.

Both the regular size lozenges and mini lozenges deliver the same amount of nicotine in their respective forms: 2 mg/4 mg in the regular-size lozenge is comparable to the 2 mg/4mg in the mini-lozenge, respectively.

 

What’s the difference between Nicotine Polacrilex Lozenges and Mini-Lozenges?

First, don’t think badly of yourself. Throw away your cigarettes and forgive yourself. Then think about what went wrong and get back on track. In fact, people who have already tried to stop smoking are more likely to be successful the next time.