Nicotine

Stop-smoking aid
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Nicotine is a stop-smoking aid found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Nicotex. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Replaces some of the nicotine from cigarettes to ease cravings while quitting.

How it works

Nicotine replacement (gum, lozenge, patch, spray) eases cravings and withdrawal so you can stop smoking, without the tar and gases that cause harm.

How to take it

Gum: chew slowly until tingling, then park it between cheek and gum; repeat for 30 minutes. Patches: one a day on clean skin, changing site. Use for 8 to 12 weeks, then reduce.

Common side effects

  • Hiccups
  • Sore mouth or throat
  • Skin irritation (patch)
  • Vivid dreams (patch at night)

Get medical help straight away if

  • Palpitations or chest pain
  • Severe nausea or dizziness (too much nicotine)

Be careful

Chew slowly as directed; not for non-smokers. Caution with heart disease.

Other medicines and interactions

Stopping smoking raises levels of theophylline, clozapine and some antipsychotics; your doctor may need to adjust doses.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Nicotine replacement is safer than smoking in pregnancy and while breastfeeding; use the lowest effective dose and ask your doctor.

Brands of Nicotine (1)

Nicotex

Common questions

What is Nicotine used for?

Replaces some of the nicotine from cigarettes to ease cravings while quitting.

How does Nicotine work?

Nicotine replacement (gum, lozenge, patch, spray) eases cravings and withdrawal so you can stop smoking, without the tar and gases that cause harm.

How should I take Nicotine?

Gum: chew slowly until tingling, then park it between cheek and gum; repeat for 30 minutes. Patches: one a day on clean skin, changing site. Use for 8 to 12 weeks, then reduce.

What are the side effects of Nicotine?

Common: Hiccups, sore mouth or throat, skin irritation (patch), vivid dreams (patch at night). Get help straight away for: Palpitations or chest pain, severe nausea or dizziness (too much nicotine).

Does Nicotine interact with other medicines?

Stopping smoking raises levels of theophylline, clozapine and some antipsychotics; your doctor may need to adjust doses.

Is Nicotine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Nicotine replacement is safer than smoking in pregnancy and while breastfeeding; use the lowest effective dose and ask your doctor.

Does Nicotine need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Nicotine?

Nicotex.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.