of fetal loss and spontaneous abortion, birth weight, preterm birth, neonatal intensive care admissions, or incidence of congenital abnormalities. There is no evidence of significantly poorer reproductive or developmental outcome in NRT users who are pregnant. No studies on nicotine gum use in nursing mothers have been reported. Nicotine gum is designated pregnancy risk category C by the US Food and Drug administration, indicating that while animal studies have demonstrated an adverse effect on the fetus, there is an absence of adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. The potential benefits may therefore warrant the use of nicotine gum in pregnant women despite the potential risks. Adolescent use The US FDA has not approved NRT for use by adolescents under 18 years of age. There is limited research available on the effectiveness of NRT on pediatric populations. Following, there is insufficient evidence to suggest serious adverse effects caused by NRT use in adolescents. Adolescents require a prescription from a healthcare provider for all forms of NRT. See also Nicotine replacement therapy Smoking cessation Short-acting NRT Nicotine lozenge Nicotine inhaler Nicotine nasal spray Long-acting NRT Nicotine patch References External links Medline Plus entry Smoking habits, nicotine use, and congenital malformations Smoking cessation Chewing gum