Nicotine Transdermal patch - 24 hour Health Article

Generic name(s):

Nicotine Transdermal patch - 24 hour

Brand name(s):

Commit, Habitrol, Leader Nicotine Polacrilex, Nicoderm, Nicoderm C-Q, Nicoderm C-Q Clear, Nicorelief, Nicorette, Nicorette DS, Nicotine Mint, Nicotine Patch, Nicotine Patch S-2, Nicotine Patch S-3, Nicotine Patch Step 1, Nicotine Polacrilex, Nicotrol, Nicotrol Inhaler, Nicotrol NS, Nicotrol Refill, ProStep

What is this medicine?

NICOTINE (NIK oh teen) helps people stop smoking. The patches replace the nicotine found in cigarettes and help to decrease withdrawal effects. They are most effective when used in combination with a stop-smoking program.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diabetes
• heart disease, angina, irregular heartbeat or previous heart attack
• lung disease, including asthma
• overactive thyroid
• pheochromocytoma
• skin problems
• stomach problems or ulcers
• an unusual or allergic reaction to nicotine, adhesives, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use on the skin. Follow the directions that come with the patches. Find an area of skin on your upper arm, chest, or back that is clean, dry, greaseless, undamaged and hairless. Wash hands with plain soap and water. Do not use anything that contains aloe, lanolin or glycerin as these may prevent the patch from sticking. Dry thoroughly. Remove the patch from the sealed pouch. Do not try to cut or trim the patch. Using your palm, press the patch firmly in place for 10 seconds to make sure that there is good contact with your skin. After applying the patch, wash your hands. Change the patch every day, keeping to a regular schedule. When you apply a new patch, use a new area of skin. Wait at least 1 week before using the same area again.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you forget to replace a patch, use it as soon as you can. Only use one patch at a time and do not leave on the skin for longer than directed. If a patch falls off, you can replace it, but keep to your schedule and remove the patch at the right time.

What may interact with this medicine?

• medicines for asthma
• medicines for blood pressure
• medicines for mental depression

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.