Nicotine Patch

Nicotine patches are discreet and easy-to-use. The small patches are applied to the skin just once-a-day and help you deal with the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking and are most suitable for those who tend to smoke regularly throughout the day. They contain small doses of nicotine without the other harmful chemicals associated with cigarettes.

How do patches work?

A controlled dose of nicotine is continuously released from the patch through the skin over a sixteen hour period. It is absorbed quite slowly compared to smoking a cigarette so it will take a little while longer for the nicotine to get into the system.

For the patches to do their job it is important to gradually reduce the amount of nicotine absorbed by the body until it can do without it. Most patches are available in different strengths which enable people to start on the highest dose and then gradually reduce their intake until they are able to give up totally.

Nicotine patches are safe for most people who are trying to stop smoking. However, care should be taken if you are pregnant or are breastfeeding as nicotine can affect the blood supply to the developing foetus and so may play a role in slowing the growth of the baby, resulting in a low birth weight. However, the risks are less than the risks of continuing to smoke.

Remember, if you have any questions or are not sure of anything, please ask your pharmacist or local GP for advice and always read the label. Patches contain nicotine and require willpower.