The Nicorette Patch, like all nicotine patches is a self adhesive bandage that is placed on the skin to administer a slow, constant infusion of nicotine into the system. Since the Nicorette patch is a nicotine replacement therapy, it cannot take the place of smoking a cigarette. When smoking a cigarette, the nicotine is instantly introduced into the bloodstream. The patch works differently. It can take up to several hours to be introduced into the bloodstream. Therefore, it can not be slapped on for a few minutes to take the place of a cigarette.
Nicorette patches are designed to be used on a near hairless part of the body. Most people place them on their arms, but there are several other locations on the body that will also work. It is a good idea to rotate the Nicorette patch between several different locations on your body.
There are some side effects of using a nicotine patch reported by some people. Some users report skin rashes after using the patch. This is often a reaction to the adhesive used on the product. Also, some people obtain the rash from the nicotine. A topical cream such as hydrocortisone can help relieve the discomfort. Another side effect often reported is an interruption of normal sleep habits. Often, users apply a 24 hour patch and their bodies are not used to receiving nicotine while asleep. This can disrupt their normal sleep patterns. Some users have reported reducing this sleep disruption by switching to a 16 hour patch.
It is important to remember that while on the Nicorette patch you should not continue to smoke. Since the patch delivers the nicotine slowly through the skin, it can still provide nicotine up to 12 hours after removal. Smoking during this period can deliver an unusually large amount of nicotine to the body. Please use the Nicorette patch responsibly.
