Nicorette

Nicorette gum is a nicotine replacement product and is far less harmful than smoking, because it gives you nicotine without the tar and other toxic chemicals in cigarette smoke. It is intended for short-term use to help you stop smoking; follow the pack, and a pharmacist or stop-smoking service can help you use it effectively.

You draw on the inhalator like a cigarette when you get a craving, and the nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth rather than your lungs. Use it whenever the urge to smoke strikes, following the pack for how many cartridges to use a day.

Point the nozzle into your open mouth, close to the inside of your cheek, and press to release a spray when you have a craving, avoiding your throat and not breathing in as you spray. Do not swallow for a few seconds afterwards, and follow the daily maximum on the pack.

Nicorette gum helps manage cravings and withdrawal by topping up nicotine as you quit, and nicotine replacement is proven to improve your chances of stopping smoking, especially alongside support from a stop-smoking service. It works best as part of a genuine plan to quit.

Chew the gum slowly until you notice a tingle or strong taste, then 'park' it between your cheek and gum until the taste fades, and repeat this on and off for around 30 minutes. Chewing it quickly like ordinary gum can cause hiccups, throat irritation or an upset stomach, so take it slowly.

Nicorette patches are generally designed to stay on while you shower, bathe or swim briefly, though a lot of water or vigorous activity can loosen them - press it back down or check the pack. If one will not stick, replace it as directed.

Stopping smoking without nicotine is best in pregnancy, but if you are struggling, NRT such as Nicorette can be used with advice, as it is much safer than continuing to smoke. Speak to your midwife, GP or a stop-smoking service, who can guide you on the right product and how to use it.