Using the Nicotine Patch to Quit Smoking

One of the most popular ways to quit smoking is with a Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). These are substances that release nicotine into the bloodstream without smoking cigarettes.

The nicotine patch (sometimes called the Quit Smoking Patch) is one of these therapies. This is a patch which is worn on the skin to release a steady stream of nicotine into the bloodstream. This can help to alleviate the physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal after you have given up smoking cigarettes.

Nicotine gum is another popular NRT, but the nicotine patch offers more convenience. However, some people prefer nicotine gum because it gives them an oral substitute for cigarettes.

There are three strengths of nicotine patch. The strongest nicotine patch is 21 mg and this is suitable for heavy smokers. Moderate smokers are advised to start with 14 mg nicotine patches. These patches are worn for a period of about six weeks before replacing them with lower strength patch.

The 7 mg nicotine patch is worn for a period of two weeks to finally wean the smoker from nicotine.

Two Types of Nicotine Patch

There are two types of nicotine patch. One is designed to be worn 24 hours a day, and the other is meant to be worn 16 hours a day area. Some people do not sleep well with the 24-hour nicotine patch, so if you experience unsettling dreams or feel unrested after a night's sleep, try switching to the 16-hour patch.

Another possible side effect of the nicotine patch is skin irritation. Some people experience redness and discomfort where the patch is worn. These symptoms might be alleviated by simply washing the area with soap and water, but if the discomfort continues, consult your doctor about switching to a different brand of nicotine patch or using a different type of nicotine replacement therapy.

Using the Nicotine Patch

The nicotine patch should not be applied to broken skin, and the area of skin should have relatively little hair. Many people apply the nicotine patch to their upper arms, back, or thighs.

The nicotine patch has to be applied to a new area of skin every day, and each of these areas should not be used more than once per week.

The nicotine patch, along with other nicotine replacement therapies, has a good rate of success. One of the hardest things about quitting smoking is overcoming the physical addiction to nicotine, and nicotine replacement therapies are ineffective in reducing nicotine dependency.

Nicotine addiction, however, is only one aspect of the cigarette habit. Cigarette smoking is also a habit that is strongly associated with certain behaviors such as drinking coffee, talking with friends, or going to a party. Many former smokers often feel the urge to light up in these types of situations even when they are well past the physical addiction to nicotine.

If you have recently given up smoking, it may be wise to avoid these types of situations for some time. Even though you are no longer addicted to nicotine, you may still feel the temptation to light up in these kinds of social situations.