Novartis is introducing nicotine lozenges to its range of smoking cessation products. Nicotinell lozenges contain 1mg of nicotine but provide the same level of nicotine as 2mg nicotine gum, the company says. Novartis adds that the mint-flavoured lozenge is fast-acting and sugar free and one lozenge may be sucked slowly every 1-2 hours until the taste becomes strong. The lozenge should then be rested between the gum and cheek. When the taste has faded, it should be sucked slowly so that it remains whole for about 30 minutes. It is estimated that 8-10 lozenges will be sucked a day. The maximum recommended daily dose is 25 lozenges. The company says that the product is suitable for people who smoke under 20 cigarettes a day, otherwise nicotine patches or 4mg gum is recommended. The lozenge is not reccommended for people who have a strong nicotine dependency and should not be used by non-smokers, people under the age of 18 years, those with hypertension or if pregnant or breast feeding (retail price, 12 lozenges £2.99, 36 £7.49, 96 £15.99).