From Terry Martin,
Your Guide to Smoking Cessation.
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One of the most popular NRT's(nicotine replacement therapies) available on the market today is the nicotine patch. First introduced in the U.S. by prescription only in 1992, the nicotine patch could be bought over-the-counter beginning in 1996.

Is the Nicotine Patch Effective for Smoking Cessation?

Studies have shown the using NRT's can be helpful in a person's quit program, and that using the nicotine patch can double the rate of success with smoking cessation.

I used the nicotine patch to help me quit smoking, and it worked like a charm. It's important to note however, that the nicotine patch, or any other quit smoking aid for that matter is not a cure-all. They are exactly what their names imply...aids. They are useful tools, but your success or failure with quitting tobacco depends on you, not your quit aid.

A Perspective on Using NRT's

Foster the mindset you need to quit smoking successfully and you'll find the lasting freedom from nicotine addiction that you're looking for.

Developing the Will to Quit Smoking Successfully

What Do Nicotine Patches Look Like?

The nicotine patch resembles a square tan or clear bandage. The size depends on the dosage and brand used, but generally is between one and two inches square.

Review: Nicoderm CQ Thinflex Patch

How Does the Nicotine Patch Work?

The nicotine patch provides a steady, controlled dose of nicotine throughout the day, thereby reducing the effects of nicotine withdrawal. Patch strength is reduced over time, allowing the user to wean themselves off of nicotine gradually.

How Do I Use the Nicotine Patch?

Nicotine patches typically come in three different dosage strengths: 21mg, 14mg and 7mg, though this may vary between manufacturers slightly. These numbers refer to the amount of nicotine in the product.

The 21mg patch is usually recommended as a starting point for people who smoke a pack of 20 cigarettes or more daily. From there, following package instructions, the user 'steps down' to lower dose patches until the final step down to no patch.

Nicotine Patch Dosage Calculator

The nicotine patch should be applied once a day to clean, dry, hairless skin. Manufacturers ususally recommend wearing the patch between 16 and 24 hours a day, depending on what you're comfortable with. However, wearing the nicotine patch to bed at night can disrupt sleep and cause vivid dreams. If this becomes a concern, remove the patch before bed and put a fresh one on the next morning.

What are the Side Effects Associated with the Nicotine Patch?

Side effects of nicotine patches may include:

• Itching, burning or tingling when the patch is applied. This usually goes away within an hour, and is a result of nicotine coming in contact with the skin.
• Redness or swelling at the patch site for up to 24 hours.
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

If any of the above symptoms are severe or do not go away, consult your doctor.

Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• severe rash or swelling
• seizures
• abnormal heartbeat or rhythm
• difficulty breathing

If you take any other medications, be sure to check with your doctor before starting the patch, as it can change the way some medicines work.

Special Precautions:

Let your doctor know if you have any illnesses, including the following:

• chest pains or a recent heart attack
• heart disease
• stomach ulcers
• thyroid disease
• diabetes
• skipped or irregular heart beats
• allergies to tapes, bandages or medicines
• skin rashes or skin diseases
• high blood pressure
• kidney or liver disease.

Smoking While Using the Nicotine Patch

Do not smoke when using nicotine patches or any other NRT, as you run the risk of receiving an overdose of nicotine.

Signs of a nicotine overdose may include:

• dizziness
• upset stomach
• bad headaches
• vomiting
• cold sweats
• drooling
• confusion
• blurred vision
• hearing problems
• weakness or fainting

If you suspect an overdose, take the patch off and call your doctor immediately.

The nicotine patch is a solid tool to help you quit smoking, but remember: the magic of success lies within you, not in any package containing a quit aid. Work on developing the resolve to do whatever it takes for however long it takes, and apply yourself daily to the task. Do this, and you will not fail!

Sources:

• Medline Plus - Drugs and Supplements - U.S. National Library of Medicine
• About Nicoderm CQ - GlaxoSmithKline, Inc.
• Silagy, C et al. Meta-analysis on efficacy of nicotine replacement therapies in smoking cessation Lancet 1994 Jan 15;343(8890):139-42.