Why is this medication prescribed?

Commit lozenges are typically prescribed or recommended for smoking cessation. They are used to help people quit smoking by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with nicotine addiction. These lozenges provide a controlled amount of nicotine, which helps to gradually wean smokers off cigarettes.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Commit lozenges should be used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Commit lozenges depends on the individual’s smoking habits and nicotine dependence. Generally, the lozenges come in different strengths (e.g., 2 mg and 4 mg) to accommodate varying levels of nicotine addiction.
• Usage Instructions:
  • Start of Treatment: Begin using Commit lozenges on your quit day, the day you stop smoking completely.
  • Usage Schedule: Typically, you should use one lozenge every 1-2 hours initially, but not more than one lozenge every hour. This helps in managing cravings throughout the day.
  • Gradual Reduction: Over time, as your cravings decrease and you adjust to not smoking, you should gradually reduce the number of lozenges used per day.
  • Maximum Daily Use: Avoid using more than 20 lozenges per day. If you find you need more than the maximum recommended dose, consult with your healthcare provider.
• Administration:
  • Place the lozenge in your mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly over about 20-30 minutes. Do not chew or swallow the lozenge whole; it should dissolve completely.
  • Occasionally move the lozenge from one side of your mouth to the other while it dissolves.
  • Do not eat or drink for 15 minutes before using the lozenge or while the lozenge is in your mouth to ensure optimal absorption of nicotine.
• Duration of Use: Commit lozenges are typically used for 12 weeks (3 months) as part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program. However, your healthcare provider may adjust this duration based on your progress and individual needs.
• Side Effects and Cautions: Like any medication, Commit lozenges can have side effects, such as nausea, hiccups, sore throat, and headaches. It’s important to follow the usage instructions carefully and consult your healthcare provider if you experience persistent or severe side effects.

It’s crucial to combine the use of Commit lozenges with behavioral support programs and counseling to maximize your chances of successfully quitting smoking. Your healthcare provider can help create a personalized plan that includes these elements to support your quit attempt effectively.

Other uses for this medicine

• Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Apart from smoking cessation, Commit lozenges might be used to manage nicotine withdrawal in situations where abrupt cessation of nicotine intake could be detrimental, such as in heavy smokers undergoing surgery.
• Reduction of Nicotine Cravings: Some individuals may use Commit lozenges to reduce cravings and manage nicotine dependency in situations where quitting smoking entirely is not immediately feasible but reduction is a goal.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Commit Lozenges:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before using Commit lozenges. Nicotine can affect fetal development and may pass into breast milk, potentially affecting the baby.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stomach ulcers, or kidney or liver problems. Nicotine can exacerbate certain conditions or interact with medications you may be taking.
• Allergies: If you have allergies, particularly to nicotine or any components of the lozenges, discuss this with your healthcare provider before using Commit lozenges.
• Children and Pets: Keep Commit lozenges out of reach of children and pets. Nicotine in high doses can be toxic and potentially fatal if ingested.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Nicotine can cause dizziness and impair concentration. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how Commit lozenges affect you.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as nausea, headache, dizziness, and throat irritation. If these symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.
• Maximum Daily Use: Stick to the recommended maximum daily dose of Commit lozenges (20 lozenges per day for most users) to avoid nicotine overdose.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when using Commit lozenges to ensure they are used safely and effectively, especially when considering any off-label uses.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Commit lozenges. However, to maximize the effectiveness of the lozenges:

• Avoid eating or drinking for 15 minutes before using a Commit lozenge.
• Do not eat or drink while the lozenge is in your mouth to ensure proper absorption of nicotine.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use a Commit lozenge, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Consistency in using the lozenges according to the recommended schedule helps maintain steady nicotine levels in your body, which is important for managing cravings effectively during smoking cessation.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Commit lozenges, like any medication, can cause side effects. These side effects can vary from person to person and may include:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea: This is one of the most commonly reported side effects.
  • Hiccups
  • Heartburn
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Coughing
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Indigestion
  • Flatulence (gas)
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Weakness
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Dry mouth
  • Increased salivation
• Rare or Serious Side Effects:
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
  • Severe nausea or vomiting
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Seizures

It’s important to note that nicotine replacement therapies like Commit lozenges deliver nicotine, which can lead to nicotine dependence. However, the risk of dependence from nicotine replacement therapies is much lower compared to smoking cigarettes.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while using Commit lozenges, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider can help manage side effects and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

Always follow the dosage and usage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the product label to minimize the risk of side effects and maximize the effectiveness of Commit lozenges in helping you quit smoking.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Commit Lozenges:

• Storage:
  • Store Commit lozenges at room temperature (between 20-25°C or 68-77°F).
  • Keep them in a dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep the lozenges in their original packaging until ready to use to protect them from damage.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of used or expired Commit lozenges safely to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets.
  • Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
  • If no specific instructions are provided, you can dispose of them in the household trash after making them undesirable by mixing them with an unpalatable substance (e.g., coffee grounds or dirt).

In case of emergency/overdose

• Nicotine Overdose Symptoms: Symptoms of nicotine overdose can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, increased heart rate, palpitations, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, nicotine overdose can cause seizures, coma, or even death.
• What to Do in Case of Overdose: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after using Commit lozenges, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center (in the US, call 1-800-222-1222) or emergency services right away. Do not ignore symptoms of nicotine overdose, even if they seem mild at first.

What other information should I know?

• Effectiveness: Commit lozenges are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program that includes behavioral support and counseling.
• Dependency: While Commit lozenges help reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings, they contain nicotine and can be habit-forming. However, the risk of dependence is lower compared to smoking cigarettes.
• Duration of Use: Use Commit lozenges according to the recommended schedule and duration as advised by your healthcare provider. Typically, they are used for up to 12 weeks, but this can vary based on individual needs.
• Behavioral Support: Behavioral counseling and support are important components of quitting smoking successfully. Consider joining a smoking cessation program or seeking counseling to increase your chances of success.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow the usage instructions provided with Commit lozenges or as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use.

By understanding these aspects of storage, disposal, emergencies/overdose, and other important information about Commit lozenges, you can use them effectively as part of your smoking cessation efforts while minimizing risks and maximizing benefits. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.