Nicotine Patch Side Effects

Nicotine Patches Theraphy

Nicotine patches (nicotine transdermal system) provide a measured dose of nicotine through the skin. As you decrease the dose of nicotine patches to change the course of several weeks, you will be less dependent on nicotine. The patches are available without prescription. There are several types of patches of different concentrations on the market. The package provides instructions on how to use the product as well as special considerations and description of possible nicotine patch side effects.

The 16-hour patch works well for people who smoke low and the average smoker. In addition, this patch tends to cause fewer side effects such as irritation of the skin, rapid heartbeat, difficulty sleeping and headaches. However, it provides no nicotine during the night, so that it is useful to treat the symptoms of withdrawal that occur early in the morning.

The 24-hour patch provides a steady dose of nicotine, avoiding the ups and downs. This type of patch relieves withdrawal symptoms that occur early in the morning. However, it can produce more side effects, such as interrupted sleep patterns and skin irritation.

According to the size of the person, most smokers should begin using a patch of maximum concentration (15-22 mg of nicotine) daily for four weeks, and then a lower concentration patch (5-14 mg of nicotine) by other four weeks. The patch should be applied in the morning in a clean, dry skin that does not have much hair. It should be placed between the neck and waist, for example, in the arm. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends using the patch for a total of three to five months. However, some studies have shown that use of the patch for eight weeks or less is as effective as using it for longer.

Side effects are related to:

The dose of nicotine

The brand of the patch

The individual characteristics of the skin (such as the tendency of the person suffering from a skin reaction because of the patch)

The time you use the patch

How to apply the patch: Some side effects that may occur with the nicotine patch:

   Skin irritations such as redness and itching

   Dizziness

   Rapid heartbeat

   Difficulty sleeping or unusual dreams

   Headache

   Sickness

   Vomiting

   Muscle aches and stiffness

Steps you can take in relation to nicotine patch side effects:

   Try a different brand of patches, if skin irritation occurs.

   Reduce the amount of nicotine using a lower dose patch.

   Sleeping difficulties may be temporary and disappear after 3 to 4 days. If not (and you are using a 24 hour patch), try switching to a 16-hour patch.

   Stop using the patch and try a different therapy of nicotine replacement.