Nicotine gum addiction is a physical and mental dependency that occurs when a person is unable to give up chewing gum that contains nicotine, which typically is used in an effort to quit smoking. The gum generally is used as a temporary smoking substitute, and it works by slowly releasing low levels of nicotine into the user as he or she chews it. More than a million people use the gum each year in an effort to quit smoking, and nicotine gum addiction generally happens when a person successfully stops smoking but is then unable to stop using the gum.
Nicotine gum is designed to be used for a maximum of 12 weeks. During this time, the smoker will experience less craving for cigarettes because they are receiving a steady supply of nicotine from the gum. The physical habit of smoking is replicated somewhat, because the smoker will reach for the gum instead of a cigarette. The overall experience is too similar for some users, however, and nicotine gum addiction occurs. From a health standpoint, becoming addicted to the gum is preferable to smoking, but this is not the designed or desired outcome.
Some of the problems associated with nicotine gum addiction include jaw pain and hair loss, the high cost of the gum and the fact that the user still is addicted to nicotine. It is sold over the counter without a prescription, so despite the high price, it is readily available and easily obtained. Just as in cigarette addiction, the price often is a negligible deterrent to people who suffer from nicotine gum addiction.
While tying to quit chewing the gum, users can experience some substantial side effects that mirror those seen when quitting smoking. Headaches, depression and irritability are the most frequently observed. The depression often is linked to lower levels of dopamine in the user.
Nicotine causes the body to release dopamine, which creates a feeling of pleasure or happiness in the user. The effect is short-lived, however, and the user must continue to take in nicotine in order to continue the release of dopamine. This is seen in all types of nicotine replacement therapy, including nicotine patches and inhalers. This need for dopamine is one of the key factors that produce the cycle of addiction and make it difficult for some people to stop using nicotine gum.
