![About Nicotrol Patch [OTC]](http://photos2.demandstudios.com/DM-Resize/farm4.static.flickr.com/3067/2759451249_2cf51aebab.jpg?h=10000&w=400&keep_ratio=1)
Quitting smoking isn't always as easy as throwing your pack of cigarettes in the trash. Some smokers try unsuccessfully to quit smoking several times before they find a plan that works. If you've made a goal to quit smoking, ensure your best success by using a smoking-cessation treatment, like the Nicotrol patch, so you can finally quit smoking permanently.
Function
Nicotrol patches are available over-the-counter to individuals who are 18 and over. For individuals under 18, a doctor can provide a prescription for Nicotrol. Nicotrol patches contain 15 mg of nicotine that is released slowly throughout the day through the skin and into the bloodstream. This way, the body will stop associating the good feelings nicotine provides with cigarettes. Once you no longer crave cigarettes, the patch can be discontinued after 6 to 10 weeks.
Time Frame
Nicotrol patches are applied once per day at the same time every morning, then removed at night before bed. The patch is applied to the skin, then pressed firmly for 10 seconds. The patch can be worn for as long as 10 weeks, although if you still feel an urge to wear the patch or smoke after 10 weeks, the treatment may not be the right smoking solution for you.
Considerations
The Nicotrol patch can cause negative side effects if it is ingested or worn by pets or children. To reduce the chance of accidental use, unused Nicotrol patches should be placed in an out-of-reach area, and used Nicotrol patches should be folded in half, then placed in the original wrapper and discarded in the trash. Nicotrol patches should not be used by women who are pregnant, may become pregnant during treatment or are breastfeeding.
Effects
Nicotrol patches may cause nicotine overdose if more than one patch is worn, or the product is not used as directed. Symptoms of nicotine overdose include dizziness, nausea, headache, vomiting and confusion. Other side effects of the Nicotrol patch may include itching or burning in the area of application or skin redness. Individuals who get allergic reactions to adhesive tape or have had allergic reactions to other nicotine patches in the past should not use Nicotrol patches.
Expert Insight
The Mayo Clinic suggests that although it is possible to become dependent on nicotine patches, it may take at least 8 weeks of treatment to be able to quit smoking completely. "Don't be in a hurry to stop using the patch," states the Mayo Clinic. If the treatment works correctly, your body will eventually no longer feel the need to smoke cigarettes or use the patch. If a one-dose treatment like the Nicotrol patch is too strong, a doctor can prescribe another form of nicotine replacement therapy to help the body taper down from its nicotine dependency.
