Quit Smoking with a Nicotine Patch

Program Description

If you smoke, quitting is the most important step to improving your health. Your lung function improves almost immediately when you quit and your heart disease and lung cancer risk begin to drop too. Nicotine is addictive, and withdrawal symptoms keep 70% to 90% of smokers from quitting. Many people get excellent help from a nicotine patch.

Actions

1. Stop smoking and throw away any leftover cigarettes.

2. Don't smoke while using a patch. Don't risk a nicotine overdose.

3. Ask your doctor if they have a recommendation for the best patch for you.

4. Buy a 16-hour patch if you're a light or average smoker.

5. Buy a 24-hour patch if you are a heavy smoker or have bad withdrawal in the morning.

6. Read the directions that come with the patch very carefully.

7. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if something about the directions is unclear.

8. Use a full strength patch with up to 22 mg of nicotine every day for one month.

9. Use a lower-strength patch with no more than 14 mg of nicotine one more month.

10. If the patch causes side effects (skin irritation or sleep problems) try another nicotine replacement system.