Global Nicotine Gum Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, Regional Outlook, and Forecast 2023-2030

The global nicotine gum market is on the path to substantial growth, with a projected CAGR of nearly 6% during the period from 2023 to 2030. By the end of 2030, the market is expected to surpass the US$2 billion mark in valuation.

Nicotine Gum: A Crucial Tool in Smoking Cessation

Nicotine gum, available over-the-counter (OTC), plays a vital role in aiding individuals in their quest to quit smoking. It assists tobacco users in reducing their cigarette consumption and ultimately quitting smoking altogether. Upon consumption, nicotine is released and absorbed through the mouth's lining into the bloodstream, gradually reducing nicotine cravings, the urge to smoke, and withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine gum is commonly available in three different strengths: 2 mg, 4 mg, and 6 mg, with users selecting their strength based on their daily cigarette consumption. The rise in lung cancer cases and other respiratory disorders stands as one of the primary drivers of market expansion.

Key Findings from the Market Report

• The nicotine gum market is set for impressive revenue growth between 2023 and 2030.
• Market expansion is driven by factors such as the increasing popularity of smoking cessation aids, governmental efforts to reduce tobacco use, and the growing number of smoking-related fatalities.
• Demand for the 2 mg type of nicotine gum remains high in the market.
• Pharmacies hold the highest share of nicotine gum market revenue in 2022.

North America is expected to maintain its lead, while the Asia Pacific nicotine gum market will experience significant growth through 2030.

Growth Drivers

Increasing Promotion of Anti-smoking Campaigns

Factors propelling the growth of the nicotine gum market include urbanization, product advancements such as the manufacture of nicotine products (gums), and active research and development activities.

Government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are advocating the use of smoking cessation aids like nicotine gums and other nicotine replacement products to assist individuals, particularly young people, in overcoming tobacco addiction. This trend is observed in both developing and developed countries.

Several influential organizations support anti-smoking campaigns and regularly release products like gum and lozenges to aid in smoking cessation. The combination of these products with effective cessation programs increases the likelihood of individuals quitting smoking.

Increasing Prevalence of Heart-related and Respiratory Disorders

The primary factor driving market growth is the increasing number of individuals seeking to quit smoking due to growing awareness of the dangers of smoking. Additionally, there has been a noticeable surge in demand for nicotine cessation support from hospitals and rehabilitation facilities globally, both in developed and developing countries.

Furthermore, the market is primarily driven by the rising incidence of diseases such as lung cancer, heart conditions, and respiratory problems. The increase is attributed to the growing use of tobacco in various forms, posing a significant threat to global public health. These factors are expected to boost the nicotine gum market.

Favorable Government Initiatives

Government initiatives to reduce smoking rates have seen substantial growth. Governments worldwide are supporting comprehensive tobacco control plans that encompass various measures, including restrictions on tobacco advertising and the implementation of smoke-free policies in workplaces and public spaces. Efforts to combat tobacco smuggling through increased cigarette taxes are also contributing to these initiatives.

Strong health warnings on tobacco products, support for smoking cessation, product quality regulation, and anti-smoking campaigns are additional measures that have prompted individuals to seek alternatives to reduce their tobacco consumption. This has fueled demand for nicotine gum, as governments and NGOs in both developed and developing nations support nicotine replacement therapies.

Challenges

Potential Side Effects of Nicotine

Nicotine gum products can cause a range of side effects, including elevated blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, drowsiness, indigestion, irritability, loss of appetite, heartburn, vomiting, and hiccups. Prolonged and frequent use of nicotine gum can lead to nausea and abdominal discomfort.

In some individuals, it can also result in flatulence and indigestion. While nicotine gum contains significantly less nicotine than cigarettes, prolonged use can still lead to addiction. Nicotine in the gum enters the bloodstream through absorption by the mouth's tissues when chewed.

Recent research conducted by the University of London has indicated that regular users of nicotine gum are more likely to experience alterations in the FOXM1 gene, increasing the risk of oral cancer. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to these intermittent nicotine doses, making it more challenging to break the addiction. These limitations are expected to hinder market growth during the forecast period.

Key Segments

2 mg Type Dominates Consumer Base

In 2022, the 2 mg category led the market. Users opt for 2 mg nicotine gum as part of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to aid in smoking cessation or reducing cigarette consumption. With increasing awareness of the health risks associated with smoking, more individuals are seeking ways to cut down or quit smoking.

The availability of 2 mg nicotine gums in various flavors, along with their ease of access, attracts new consumers and is expected to sustain demand throughout the forecast period. Nicorette 2 mg gum helps reduce and control cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with tobacco dependence. It is recommended for smokers and those around them as a safer alternative to smoking.

It is also suggested to support smokers who wish to reduce their cigarette intake before quitting altogether. During the forecast period, the 4 mg segment is expected to grow significantly. Individuals who use 4 mg nicotine gum are typically heavy smokers, defined as those who smoke 25 or more cigarettes daily.

Heavy smokers often require a higher dose of nicotine to achieve relief, and the increased nicotine content in 4 mg gum is designed to help them better manage their nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The higher nicotine dosage in 4 mg gum caters to the needs of heavy smokers who typically require a larger amount of nicotine for relief.

Pharmacy Distribution Channel Leads the Way

Pharmacies dominated the market in 2022. Consumers choose to purchase nicotine gum from pharmacies for various reasons, including the availability of medical advice and support, the convenience of obtaining it alongside other health-related products, product availability, quality assurance, and privacy.

Pharmacies often employ knowledgeable staff members who can offer guidance and information on nicotine gum and other nicotine replacement therapies. In many countries, the sale of nicotine gum and other nicotine replacement products is restricted to pharmacies. Sales and marketing of these products are expected to increase in the coming years due to the presence of general practitioners and well-informed pharmacists in these establishments.

Furthermore, pharmacies employ experienced professionals who can provide guidance and information on nicotine gum and other nicotine replacement therapies. The online distribution channel segment is expected to grow rapidly during the forecast period. In recent years, online channels have witnessed significant popularity.

Consumers are increasingly favoring online channels due to their convenience, cost savings, availability of a wide range of products on a single platform, door-to-door delivery, easy payment options, and more. Compared to traditional brick-and-mortar stores, online retailers often offer a broad selection of nicotine gums with various flavors, strengths, and brands, allowing consumers to choose the product that best suits their needs. The growth is further expected to be driven by the discounts offered by online retail pharmacies.

Growth Opportunities Across Regions

North America Maintains Primacy

North America is expected to dominate the global nicotine gum market during the forecast period. Increased health consciousness among consumers, coupled with government initiatives and marketing campaigns promoting public health, are driving the local market. Moreover, the region hosts major companies focused on product innovation to meet consumer demands and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Renowned businesses such as Philip Morris, Cipla Health Limited, and Johnson & Johnson have introduced innovative products to expand market share in North America. In particular, the United States accounts for most of the nicotine gum market in North America.

Asia Pacific Gains from Novel Products

The Asia Pacific region is poised for the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Factors contributing to this growth include heightened consumer demand for unique products, intensified competition among major tobacco companies, and more market opportunities, especially in Japan.

Market potential growth, particularly in Japan, increasing demand for novel products, and heightened competition among major tobacco corporations also contribute to this expansion. Strong anti-smoking regulations in China and India are expected to boost demand for nicotine replacement products such as gum.

Companies are actively pursuing strategies in the market, including partnerships, new product development, expansions, mergers, and acquisitions.

Nicotine Gum Market: Competitive Landscape

Leading players in the nicotine gum market include British American Tobacco plc, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis AG, ITC Limited, Cipla Health Limited, Perrigo Company Plc, Teva Canada, Philip Morris International, Inc., Revolymer, and Enorama Pharma AB. These companies are actively shaping the market and driving innovation in nicotine gum products.