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Nicotine replacement therapy - nicotine gum
Nicotine gum delivers nicotine through the oral mucosa to bind nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms during smoking cessation.
Nicotine gum delivers nicotine through the oral mucosa to bind nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms during smoking cessation. Used for Nicotine dependence / smoking cessation.
At a glance
| Generic name | Nicotine replacement therapy - nicotine gum |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Nicotine polacrilix, Nicotine gum |
| Sponsor | Iowa City Veterans Affairs Medical Center |
| Drug class | Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist |
| Target | Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Addiction Medicine / Smoking Cessation |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Nicotine acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, particularly in the mesolimbic dopamine pathway, which mediates reward and addiction. By providing exogenous nicotine without the harmful combustion byproducts of cigarettes, the gum reduces the severity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings, facilitating abstinence. The gradual tapering of nicotine dose allows patients to progressively reduce dependence.
Approved indications
- Nicotine dependence / smoking cessation
Common side effects
- Mouth and throat irritation
- Hiccups
- Dyspepsia
- Jaw soreness
- Nausea
- Headache
Key clinical trials
- Smoking Cessation and Menstrual Cycle Phase (PHASE4)
- Cytisine vs Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NA)
- ACT Lung Health Intervention: Phase Two (NA)
- iCanQuit Smoking Cessation Among Hispanic Adults (PHASE3)
- Varenicline for Smoking Reduction in Veterans Not Ready To Quit (PHASE4)
- Auricular Stimulation for Nicotine Withdrawal in Psychiatric Inpatients (NA)
- Mobile Contingency Management for Smoking Cessation (NA)
- Combination Nicotine Replacement Therapy, Cytisine, or Varenicline for Smoking Cessation (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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