Nicotine Replacement (NRT): uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Nicotine gum, patches or lozenges ease withdrawal while quitting smoking. It belongs to the Smoking cessation & weight group. These help people stop smoking or manage weight.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Smoking cessation & weight
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Easing withdrawal while quitting smoking
Reducing cravings (gum, lozenge, spray for sudden urges)
Cutting down before quitting completely

Common brand names

India: Nicotex, Kwiknic, 2Baconil
Worldwide: Nicorette, NicoDerm

Common side effects

Skin irritation under the patch
Mouth or throat irritation (gum, lozenge)
Hiccups or indigestion
Vivid dreams (patch worn overnight)

Before taking it — precautions

Do not keep smoking while using it
Tell your doctor about recent heart attack, stroke or uncontrolled heart rhythm
Keep away from children; nicotine is poisonous to them

When to see a doctor urgently

Nausea, vomiting, dizziness or fast heartbeat (too much nicotine)
A child swallowing gum, lozenge or a patch (urgent)
Chest pain or irregular heartbeat (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of nicotine replacement depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is nicotine replacement safer than smoking?

Yes. The harm of smoking comes mainly from tar and smoke, not nicotine. NRT gives nicotine without these.

How do I chew nicotine gum?

Chew slowly until tingling, then rest it between cheek and gum, and repeat. Chewing it like normal gum causes hiccups and nausea.

Can I use a patch and gum together?

Yes, combining a patch with a quick-acting form works better than either alone for many people.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.