FRIDAY, Nov. 1, 2002 (HealthDayNews) -- An over-the-counter nicotine lozenge for smokers trying to kick the habit has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
GlaxoSmithKline's Commit is the first nicotine lozenge that doesn't require a doctor's prescription. Also the first of its kind to win FDA approval, it's available in two strengths and includes a method to determine a person's addiction to nicotine, the company says.
The "Time to First Cigarette" tool, for example, dictates that a nicotine-deprived person who wakes up requiring a cigarette within 30 minutes of awakening should take the 4 milligram strength lozenge. Those who can wait at least 30 minutes before they succumb to their craving are directed to use the 2 milligram strength.
The Commit lozenge helps relieve craving and withdrawal symptoms by providing a temporary alternate source of nicotine, without the harmful tars and carbon monoxide found in smoke. The person uses fewer and fewer lozenges during the 12-week program until he is able to stop the product entirely.
The 72-pack lozenges will be available next month for a suggested retail price of $39.95, GlaxoSmithKline says.
Here's the company press release announcing the FDA approval. For more information about quitting smoking, check the National Library of Medicine.
