The nicotine patch and nicotine gum are two types of nicotine replacement therapy that help you stop smoking by weaning off nicotine and controlling cravings. In fact, the American Heart Association states that nicotine replacement therapy doubles the likelihood of successfully quitting smoking. Both the gum and the patch are available over the counter, in multiple strength formulations. Nicotine replacement therapy is most effective when combined with behavioral changes and a personal support system.
How to Use the Nicotine Patch
Step 1
Select the correct dose before beginning nicotine replacement therapy with the patch. The patch is available in three strengths: 21 mg for heavy smokers, 14 mg for moderate smokers and 7 mg for light smokers. Step your dose down over a period of several months to ease physical withdrawal symptoms.
Step 2
Open the sealed packet that contains your patch when you are ready to apply it to your body. Remove the protective cover without touching the adhesive. Discard the cover.
Step 3
Place the patch, adhesive side down, on a dry, clean, hairless area of skin. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends your upper arm or stomach. Avoid cut or burned skin, and look for a location above your waist.
Step 4
Press the patch firmly against your skin for at least 10 seconds. This will ensure the adhesive bonds with your skin. Make certain there are no wrinkles or bubbles in the patch.
Step 5
Wash your hands with soap and water to remove any adhesive or nicotine residue. Do not touch your eyes or mucous membranes before washing your hands.
Step 6
Leave the patch in place for the time indicated on the package. If the patch interferes with sleep, the New York State Smoker's Quitline suggests removing it before going to bed and applying a new patch on a different area of skin when you wake in the morning. Do not remove the patch to bathe.
Step 7
Fold used patches in half, with the sticky sides facing each other. This will help prevent children or pets from coming into contact with any nicotine that remains in the patch.
How to Use Nicotine Gum
Step 1
Begin by chewing the 2 mg nicotine gum if you are a light smoker, or the 4 mg gum if you are a heavy smoker.
Step 2
Chew one piece of gum every hour or two during the early stages of your quit. Alternatively, you can chew a piece only as needed to control your urge to smoke and ease withdrawal symptoms. The University of Arizona recommends against eating or drinking for 15 minutes prior to using nicotine gum.
Step 3
Chew the gum slowly, until your mouth begins to tingle or you develop a peppery taste in your mouth. When this occurs, stop chewing and move the chewing gum between your gum and cheek. The National Institutes of Health suggests repeating this process when the tingling subsides. Discard the gum after about 30 minutes.
Step 4
Limit the number of pieces you use each day to 30 if you are under a doctor's care and chewing the 2 mg gum. Use 24 pieces or less if you are not under a doctor's care or if you are chewing the 4 mg gum.
Tips and Warnings
- Wait one week or longer before reusing a skin site for patch application.
- Alert your doctor immediately if you experience dizziness, severe headache, confusion, upset stomach, vomiting, blurred vision, weakness, fainting, hearing difficulties, sweating or drooling while using the patch. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that these symptoms may be signs of a nicotine overdose. Do not swallow nicotine gum. Stop smoking before using the patch or gum. The National Institutes of Health warns against using nicotine gum for longer than three months without your doctor's approval. Side effects of nicotine gum include dizziness, hiccups, indigestion, sore throat, nausea, headache, mouth ulcers and aching jaw. Severe side effects, such as heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures or breathing problems require medical care.
