Can You Get Mouth Cancer From Nicotine Lozenges?

Posted on Sat, 20 Jan 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 20 Jan 2018 Answered on

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : I have quit smoking using nicotine lozenges, but I cannot seem to quit the lozenges. Can the lozenges cause oral cancer if used long term? I have been using them for almost a year. I have a small irritation on my lower inside lip. It has been there a few days and I am afraid it could grow into cancer if it does not go away.

I would like to send you a photo but there is really no point. I cannot see the irritation, I can only feel it. It feels kind of like I burned my lip on hot coffee, which is entirely possible. If it gets worse I can send you a picture

Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, please see the detailed answer below

Detailed Answer:
Dear Ma'am, I have gone through your question and I understand your concerns

Unfortunately, nicotine lozenges increase the risk of having mouth cancer and it is not recommended to use them for more than a few months... Other side effects of nicotine lozenges include sore throat discomfort or heartburn, a painful burning sensation felt at the top of the stomach, heart rate irregularities or unusual mouth sores..

However, I would like to see a photo of the irritated part so that I can assist you more precisely...You can simply upload/attach the picture to the 'Reports section' of this web-page...

I hope you find this helpful..

Regards

Brief Answer:
Inflammation

Detailed Answer:
Dear Ma'am, Hello again...

This could be only an inflamed part that should resolve within a couple of days.. You can also try salt water gargles to help faster resolution, but I would strongly recommend you stop the nicotine lozenges.

Kind regards

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee