I’m not trying to stop smoking, but I wanted to see what the makers of Nicorette stop smoking gum thought of this idea…
Dear Stop Smoking and Start Chewing Gum Advocates:
I understand that Nicorette Gum relieves nicotine cravings anytime, anywhere. Will it work in New Jersey? I don’t smoke, but when I’m in certain parts of New Jersey I feel like I do.
Actually, I’ve never tried a cigarette. I don’t even care for smoked foods. My ex-wife’s uncle smoked heavily. When I told her I couldn’t breathe around him she’d say, “Don’t fight it.” That’s a whole other story, but it’s part of the reason I’m writing.
Do you think smokers would be offended if I offered them Nicorette Gum to stop smoking until I left the area? This could be a lifesaver for me at certain outdoor restaurants or crowded places like art fairs. What could I tell a smoker about Nicorette Gum that will make them consider my offer rather than want to get me in a chokehold and blow smoke in my face?
Don’t worry if the only information you have available is second hand. That will be fine considering I’ll be dealing with situations involving second hand smoke.
A Customer Service Representative responded with:
Thank you for contacting GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare regarding Nicorette® stop smoking aid.
Nicorette® is a nicotine polacrilex gum that has been approved by the FDA for over-the-counter (OTC) use to help people quit smoking. Nicorette® is now available in two strengths at drug stores, mass merchandisers and at supermarkets with pharmacies. It is no longer being sold by prescription. You would use Nicorette® to help ease the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking, such as irritability and nervousness. Use Nicorette® as a tool to help ease your craving for nicotine while you try to stop smoking.
It is not indicated, to help people quit smoking temporarily, when they are in a certain area.
We recognize our consumers to be a very valuable asset and appreciate your taking the time to contact us. If we may be of future assistance, please call us at (phone number and hours of operation followed).
Final Thoughts: Even though my idea for using Nicorette went up in smoke, it was interesting to learn about nicotine polacrilex gum. Prior to this, the only gums I was familiar with were chewing and receding.
It’s unfortunate that Nicorette isn’t indicated to help people quit smoking in a certain area, especially since that’s how I indicated I wanted to use it. As a result, breathing will continue to be challenging in areas where people smoke outside as well as in certain New Jersey locations where even camels can’t walk a mile without coughing.
If you want to stop smoking, you might consider chewing Nicorette. But also consider that while some manufacturers such as GlaxoSmithKline provide solid answers to inquiries about their products, others are just blowing smoke. Either way, it might help you breathe easier if you get a good response when you Write The Company.
