Congratulation on your decision to quit smoking because you have made a gigantic step for the sake of your health and family. During smoking cessation, nicotine gum can be used to relieve withdrawal symptoms. If you prefer not to chew nicotine gum, nicotine transdermal patch is an alternative choice. Each patch contains 10~30mg of nicotine and releases nicotine through a specially designed membrane. Nicotine is absorbed by the skin within 24 hours.

Instructions for using nicotine transdermal patches

1. Place the patch anywhere from the neck down to the waist or around smooth areas such as on the arms, breast, and abdomen. Replace the nicotine patch every 24 hours.
2. Place the patch on a different area each day and maintain a 3-5 day interval before applying on the same area again.
3. To reduce skin irritation, steroid cream may be applied according to doctor’s instructions. Those with sleeping difficulties can wear the patch during the day and remove it before going to sleep.

Points of attention

1. First of all, you have to stop smoking with perseverance and persistence.
2. Wear one patch per day and keep it on for 24 hours. To avoid local skin irritation, switch places. Areas most recommended for application are around your neck, arm and waist.
3. Carefully cut the package open with a pair of scissors to avoid damaging the patch inside.
4. Apply the patch on clean and dry skin where there is no dirt, alcohol, or ointment.
5. A treatment course lasts for 8 weeks. The dosage may be decreased gradually during to the treatment course. However, the treatment should not be interrupted if possible, and should not exceed 3 months.
6. Keep out of reach from children because patches contain nicotine.
7. Avoid taking expired patches and keep it dry under room temperature of 25 ℃.

Possible side effects

Some patients may experience local inflammation and pruritus. Those with cardiovascular disease may experience more significant side effects, such as headache and insomnia. There may also be slight indigestion. If any of the above aforementioned condition emerges, do not panic. Try reapplying the patch to another area and relax. If any of these symptoms persists, please consult your physician.

Remember that nicotine gums and transdermal patches are only supplementary tools in the smoking cessation process, and it is the patient’s determination and perseverance that count the most.