Nicotine Patches – Help To Stop Your Addiction

An addiction to nicotine is the primary reason as to why many people smoke. Other reasons may include stressful or social situations, but it is the nicotine that causes the craving for a cigarette. Getting nicotine from sources other then tobacco may help in alleviating this habit. Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs) include, nicotine patches and nicotine gum, have been shown to be successful in many individuals.

There are many symptoms that may occur when a person tries to stop smoking such as: fatigue, headaches, insomnia, irritability and the lack of concentration. To help reduce these symptoms one can use nicotine patches to release nicotine into the bloodstream. Patches may also help control the urge to want to smoke.

Applying A Patch

It is important to stop smoking before applying a nicotine patch. The patch can easily be applied to the skin and are more convenient than gum. Patches are somewhat different from nicotine gum in that they provide nicotine only when chewed. A patch will release a steady stream of nicotine into the bloodstream throughout the day. A disadvantage with patches is that they don’t necessarily provide the oral distraction that some smokers may need.

Place the patch on an area of the skin that has little hair and is free from cuts, abrasions or scratches. Common areas to apply the patch include: back, thigh, or upper arm. It is best to apply a patch to a new area of skin each day and do not use the same area for more than once each week. This will help preventing any skin irritation. If the patch should fall off during the day then it can easily be replaced. Be sure to properly discard a used patch to prevent children or animals from retrieving them.

Nicotine Patch Dosages

There are three different strengths in patches that include:

21 mg – heavy smokers are advised to start with this dosage. They should be used for approximately six weeks.
14 mg – best for moderate smokers to start with and can be used for six weeks and then replaced with a lower dosage.
7 mg – after the six week period is over, heavy and moderate smokers can change over to this dosage for approximately two weeks.

The average time to wear a patch during the day can vary. Some are designed to be worn over a 24 hour period, while others should be worn for 16 hours a day. There may be adverse side effects when wearing a patch to bed. Some individuals do not sleep well with a patch, and have reported experiencing vivid dreams. It is advised to wear a 16 hour patch if these symptoms should persist.

Skin Irritations

Some people have reported some discomfort when wearing a nicotine patch. Individuals have experienced itching, redness and other mild skin irritations. It is important to consult with your physician if the irritation is severe and cannot be relieved by washing with soap and water. Solutions may include: trying a patch with a lower dosage or exchange the patch with a different brand. It may also require you to re-evaluate this type of NRT and possibly consider switching to a nasal spray or gum.

Success Rate

Many nicotine replacement therapies have a high rate of success. Although lowering your dosage of nicotine may help you quit this habit, it is also important to remember that nicotine addiction is only a part of the problem. Controlling smoking in various situations of your life is another big factor. These behavioral associations must also be controlled to prevent any lapses that may occur. It is vitally important to replacement your smoking habit with a more healthy habit.

Some popular brands of nicotine gum include: Nicotrol, NicoDerm CQ, and Habitrol.