Smoking Cessation Products

The nicotine patch is applied to smoker’s body. Over a period of time, the nicotine dissolves right through the body. Nicotine from the patch replaces some of the nicotine smokers were getting from cigarettes. It can relieve some of the physical symptoms associated with giving up smoking, so smokers can concentrate on their behavioral and psychological addiction to cigarettes.

Even if smokers have been told not to sue the patch because of a medical condition, they may want to check back with their doctor from time to time, to check if their condition, or the medical advisories have changed. However, a recent study says that the patch is a safe way for smokers to quit smoking, and may improve blood and oxygen flow to the heart. Some research has suggested that the patch is safe and effective for teenage smokers, but patch use is currently not advised for people under 18 years of age.

The nicotine patch is safe but it must be used with caution. Most important, smokers should never smoke while using the patch.

Side Effects

· Headaches

· Dizziness

· Upset Stomach

· Diarrhea

· Weakness

· Blurred Vision

Some smokers do report a mild itching or burning on the skin where the patch is applied, which usually goes away in about an hour. If the irritation continues they can try moving the patch to a different spot. If it continues, they should remove the patch and contact their doctor.

Some patches contain more nicotine than others. Some smokers start with the strongest patch. Then after several weeks, they can switch to a medium-strength patch for a few weeks, and possibly a lower-strength patch for the last few weeks.

If smokers do use the nicotine patch, each morning they will apply a new nicotine patch to a clean, dry, nonhairy part of their upper body or arm. Smokers should not apply creams on the skin where they will put the patch. Smokers should press the patch firmly on their skin, It should stick to the skin well, allowing smokers to do all of their usual activities, including bathing.

One brand of the nicotine patch is removed at night, which lowers the level of nicotine in the bloodstream and give the body a rest. Other brands are worn at night as well as during the daytime, and are changed once every 24 hours. When smokers remove the patch, they should put a fresh patch on a new area of their upper body.