Nicotine Patches - Psychologist 4therapy.com

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Nicotine Patches
The nicotine patch, or "the patch" is a self-adhesive nicotine containing circle that looks like an oversized band-aid. The outer ring sticks to the skin, while the inner portion presses against the skin and slowly releases nicotine through the outer layer of the skin.

Unlike inhaled smoke, which passes almost instantaneously into the blood through the linings of the lung, the nicotine in the patch takes up to three hours to make its way through the layers of skin and into the blood. This method allows a near constant level of nicotine in the person's system. For this reason, the patch must be worn all day and cannot be put on and removed as a substitute for a cigarette.

The patch is designed to be applied to a clean, hairless place on the body. Most people favor the upper arm or shoulder, however, it can also be applied to the legs, thighs, or other areas. It is not recommended that the patch be applied to the same location repeatedly.

What Is the Most Important Information I Should Know About Nicotine?

Stop smoking as soon as you begin using the patch. Smoking while using this medication can be dangerous.

Keep used and unused nicotine patches out of the reach of children and pets to prevent poisoning.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

If it is needed, use or apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.

Other Important Information or Precautions:

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:

Heart disease

An irregular heartbeat

Angina

High blood pressure

Temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ)

Hyperthyroidism

Diabetes

Pheocmomocytoma

Liver disease

Kidney disease

A stomach ulcer

Mouth or dental problems

A skin condition

You might not be able to use nicotine patch, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring, if you have any of the conditions listed above.

What Happens If I Overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention immediately!

Symptoms of a nicotine overdose include:

Nausea

Vomiting

Watering mouth

Diarrhea

Abdominal pain

Cold sweat

Headache

Dizziness

Disturbed hearing and vision

Confusion

Weakness

Weak, irregular heartbeats

Chest pain

Seizures

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Issues:

Nicotine is known to harm un unborn baby. Increased heart rate, decreased breathing movements, and miscarriage have been reported when nicotine has been used during the third trimester. Do not use nicotine patches without first talking to your doctor or therapist if you are pregnant.

Nicotine passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not use nicotine patches without first talking to your doctor or therapist if you are breastfeeding.

Possible Side-Effects:

If you experience any of the following serious side-effects, stop using the patch and seek emergency medical attention:

An allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives)

Seizures

Irregular heartbeat

Chest pain

Other less serious side-effects may occur. Continue to use the patch and talk to your doctor or therapist if you experience:

Sleep disturbance

Dizziness

Belching or hiccups

Stomach upset or nausea

Mouth or throat soreness

Dry or watering mouth

Changed in taste

Redness, itching, or burning at the patch application site

Side-effects and risks other than those listed above may also occur. Talk to your prescribing doctor or therapist about any potential or existing side-effects that you�re concerned about.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by 4therapy.com is accurate and up-to-date, but no guarantee is made to that effect.

4therapy.com�s medication information is a reference resource designed as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge, and judgment of healthcare practitioners in patient care. 4therapy.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information 4therapy.com provides.

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