From the Guidelines
Nicotine patches are a well-established smoking cessation aid, and the most effective approach is to use them in combination with behavioral support. When it comes to nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) patches, they are available over-the-counter in various strengths: 21mg, 14mg, and 7mg for 24-hour use, or 15mg and 10mg for 16-hour use 1. For most smokers who have more than 10 cigarettes daily, starting with the highest strength patch (21mg/24hr) is recommended, followed by step-down dosing over 8-12 weeks 1. Some key points to consider when using nicotine patches include:
- Apply one patch daily to clean, dry, hairless skin, rotating application sites to prevent skin irritation 1.
- Common side effects include skin irritation, insomnia, and vivid dreams 1.
- Nicotine patches work by providing a steady dose of nicotine through the skin, reducing withdrawal symptoms while you break the behavioral habits of smoking 1.
- They're most effective when combined with behavioral support and have been shown to approximately double quit success rates compared to no treatment 1.
- If you experience persistent side effects or have cardiovascular disease, consult a healthcare provider before using nicotine patches 1. It's also important to note that using two types of NRT, such as combining a nicotine patch with a rapid-delivery form of NRT, can be more effective than using a single type 1. Additionally, combining behavioral and pharmacotherapy interventions may increase cessation rates compared to usual care or minimal behavioral interventions 1. Overall, nicotine patches are a valuable tool for smoking cessation, and when used correctly and in combination with behavioral support, they can significantly increase the chances of quitting successfully.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use reduces withdrawal symptoms, including nicotine craving, associated with quitting smoking. The nicotine patches are used to reduce withdrawal symptoms, including nicotine craving, associated with quitting smoking 2.
From the Research
Nicotine Patches for Smoking Cessation
- Nicotine patches are a form of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) that can aid in smoking cessation 3, 4, 5.
- Studies have shown that nicotine patches can be effective in reducing cigarette consumption, smoke intake, and enjoyment of smoking during the pre-quit period 3.
- The effectiveness of nicotine patches can be increased when used in combination with other forms of NRT, such as gum or lozenges 5.
- Higher doses of nicotine patches, such as 42/44 mg, may be more effective than lower doses, such as 21/22 mg, but the evidence is not conclusive 5.
Comparison to Other Smoking Cessation Methods
- Nicotine patches have been compared to other smoking cessation methods, such as bupropion and varenicline, and have been found to be similarly effective 6, 7.
- Bupropion may be more beneficial than nicotine patches for smokers with a history of depression 7.
- Varenicline has been shown to be at least as effective as bupropion for smoking cessation, but more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness 6.