Quitting with the Nicotine Patch

The nicotine patch that your doctor may have recommended may help make it easier to quit smoking. There are some health risks from using the patch so if you haven't already, make sure you discuss it with your doctor first. Read the instructions that come with the patch so you use the patch in the right way. Be absolutely sure you stop smoking on the day you start using the patch. Smoking or other intakes of nicotine while you are using the patch may lead to health problems.

Keep the patch away from children and pets. Wash your hands after you handle the patch. Do not use the patch if you are pregnant, unless your doctor knows you are pregnant and has told you to do it is ok. If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using the patch. You should also talk to your doctor if you are younger than 18 years old.

Nicotine patches are used to help the process of quitting smoking. They will not help you if you lack will power. Depending on the person, the patch can help you gradually beat the withdrawal symptoms. Quitting with the patch will usually take longer than quitting cold turkey. For some it makes the withdrawal symptoms bearable during the process. For others however, it has little or no effect with lessening the withdrawal effects.

There are different strengths of patch. Heavy smokers need to start on the strongest strength, and work down to the lowest strength. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.

As with most other drugs or medications, there are a large number of possible side effects, but in general terms you should be less likely to get side effects with these than you would if you continued smoking. Think of it as the lesser of two evils when compared with smoking.

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