In a report from the New York Times on Obama’s health, this section stood out:
Dr. Scheiner did not say when Mr. Obama started using Nicorette, how much he was using or for how long he has used it. Reporters have observed him chewing it very often.
Nicorette is a replacement therapy aimed at easing the craving for nicotine and other withdrawal effects of cigarette smoking. It has smaller amounts of nicotine than cigarettes, but avoids the dangerous compounds in cigarette smoke that can lead to cancer, heart disease and other serious chronic ailments. The Food and Drug Administration approved nonprescription sales of the drug in 1984.
How often is often? This isn’t Bubble-Yum he’s chewing, it’s a drug. And why won’t Obama allow reporters to question Dr. Scheiner?
A spokesman for Mr. Obama said his campaign would not make Dr. Scheiner available for a telephone interview. Aides have said Mr. Obama’s medical record is thin because he has not had any serious health problems.
Here’s the warning from Drugs.com:
When used for long periods of time or at high doses, some people develop a need to continue taking Nicorette Gum. This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction.
Do not suddenly stop taking Nicorette Gum without your doctor’s approval. Stopping Nicorette Gum suddenly may cause serious WITHDRAWAL symptoms including: anxiety, craving, impaired concentration, increased appetite, irritability, nervousness, sleep disturbances, and weight gain.
It’s 3 AM. The phone rings. Quick, grab the gum!