Is the Nicotine Patch a Good Way to Stop Smoking?

One of the most popular NRTs (nicotine replacement therapies) available on the market today is the nicotine patch. First introduced in the U.S. by prescription only in 1992, the patch could be bought over-the-counter beginning in 1996.

Is the Nicotine Patch Effective for Smoking Cessation?

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

That said, it's important to note that the nicotine patch, or any other quit smoking aid for that matter, is not a cure-all. They are exactly what the name implies..aids. They are useful tools, but ultimately, success or failure with quitting tobacco depends on you, not your quit aid.

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

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.

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.

The nicotine patch should be applied once a day to clean, dry, hairless skin. Manufacturers usually 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.

Any 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 heartbeats
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.

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 lasting release from nicotine addiction will be within your reach.

_Sources:

_{Medline Plus - Drugs and Supplements - U.S. National Library of Medicine}

_{Silagy, C et al. Meta-analysis on efficacy of nicotine replacement therapies in smoking cessation Lancet 1994 Jan 15;343(8890):139-42.}