Tobacco use can cause heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and a host of other health problems. The nicotine patch is available over-the-counter as a smoking cessation aid, and may make quitting smoking easier.
Application
The patient should stop smoking before using the patch. The patch should be placed on a hairless location, typically between the neck and waist, explains "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach." The patient should apply the patch as soon he wakes up and take it off at bedtime.
Dosage
Patients who smoke more than 10 cigarettes per day should start with 21 mg patches for four weeks, then 14 mg for two weeks, then 7 mg for two weeks. Patients who smoke under 10 cigarettes per day should use 14 mg patches for four weeks, followed by 7 mg for two weeks.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of the nicotine patch are abnormal dreams and skin irritation at the site of application. Other side effects include headache, trouble sleeping and drowsiness.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms may occur after quitting smoking. These symptoms include anxiety, nervousness, irritability, headache, increased appetite and cravings for a cigarette.
Precautions
Patients should not smoke while on the patch to avoid a nicotine overdose. The patch should be used with caution in patients with a recent heart attack, irregular heart beats, and severe or worsening chest pain.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Josep T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert., et al.; 2008
- New York State Smokers' Quitline: About the Nicotine Patch
