Ask your doctor or pharmacist to determine your level of Thrive (Nicotine) dependence. They can teach you how to use the Thrive (Nicotine) gum effectively and give you tips on quitting smoking. Initial treatment should be based on your level of Thrive (Nicotine) dependence.
When you start to experience a cigarette craving, start chewing one piece of gum. Proper use of the gum is important to receiving the greatest benefit from it. Do not chew the gum as you would ordinary chewing gum. Bite on the gum once or twice and then leave it between your cheek and gum. Repeat after 1 minute. Continue this for 30 minutes, then discard the gum. Repeat this process for every cigarette craving.
It is recommended that you do not drink fluids while chewing the gum since this may affect the ability of the medication to deliver Thrive (Nicotine). The dosage is individualized and depends on how much Thrive (Nicotine) is needed to relieve Thrive (Nicotine) withdrawal symptoms.
For the first 2 to 4 weeks of treatment, a higher dose (10 to 12 pieces of gum per day) is used, and then the dose is gradually reduced over the next 4 to 12 weeks. When you reach only 1 or 2 pieces per day, then the gum can be stopped. The maximum dose is 20 pieces per day. Most people need a 3 month treatment, although some may need treatment for up to 6 months. You should not use the Thrive (Nicotine) gum for more than 6 months without consulting with your doctor.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that Thrive (Nicotine) be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Store Thrive (Nicotine) at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.