Nicotine Patches Basics - Tobacco Cessation: Nicotine Patches

The patch is a nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), like the gum, that helps relieve withdrawal symptoms and cigarette cravings. It provides a steady, controlled release of nicotine (absorbed through the skin) throughout the day to reduce the incidence of withdrawal symptoms, as well as cravings associated with quitting smoking. Less nicotine is obtained from the patch than in cigarettes. It also does not contain the tars and poisonous gases found in cigarettes.

While the nicotine patch can take the edge off your cravings, it is not a magical cure for smoking. The patch can give you an opportunity to make changes in your routine without having to deal with withdrawal symptoms. But it is also recommended that other (behavioral, psychological, environmental and social) support strategies be used in conjunction with the patch.

Over time, as you become more comfortable being a nonsmoker, a lower dose patch can be purchased to taper off nicotine and then use of the product can be stopped.

Those who smoke more than ten cigarettes a day are advised to begin with the 21 mg patch and use this for six weeks. After that, taper to the 14 mg patch for two weeks and then the 7 mg patch for two weeks.

Those who smoke fewer than ten cigarettes a day are advised to begin with the 14 mg patch for six weeks and taper to the 7 mg patch for two weeks.

Patches are designed to be worn for 24 hours or for 16 hours, so review the instructions that come with the product you purchase.

Stop all use of tobacco. Apply the patch to any dry, non-hairy area of skin each morning. Most people tend to use the upper arm, shoulder, back or thigh. Apply a new patch each day to a different location so that one site will not be used for another seven days. The patch can be used while showering and swimming. If it falls off, replace it with a new patch. Carefully discard a used patch and its wrapper, as nicotine is toxic to children and pets.

Some people who use the patch develop a mild skin reaction of redness and itching. If this happens to you, rinse the area with cool water (you may also apply 1% hydrocortisone cream). If the reaction is severe, discontinue use of the patch and talk with your health care provider. Do not use the patch if you have an allergy to adhesives. If you have vivid dreams at night while wearing the patch, try removing it before you go to sleep. Never cut the patch before application as this can result in overdosing or under-dosing.