Nicotine patch

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A 21 mg dose Nicoderm CQ patch applied to the left arm

A nicotine patch is a transdermal patch that releases nicotine into the body through the skin. It is usually used as a method to quit smoking. The first patch appeared in 1993.

Issues

Efficacy

Doubts have been expressed on the efficacy of nicotine patches as a method to help reduce or stop smoking. In some studies the success rates of experimental groups using nicotine patches was comparable to using nothing at all and significantly lower than many other treatments.^[1] The American Cancer Society recommend using nicotine patches or other nicotine replacement therapies to help reduce the severity of physical withdrawal symptoms.^[2]

Side effects

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Common side effects seen in smokers using nicotine patches instead of tobacco are similar to nicotine withdrawal symptoms. These include dizziness, headache, irritability, sleep disturbances, vivid dreams, mild hallucinations, and depression. Skin irritation at the site of the patch is also common, including allergic reactions to materials or adhesives on the patch.

Cost

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In the U.S., the nicotine patch costs roughly $20 to $30 per week, although some municipalities, schools, and health plans offer subsidized or free nicotine patches. Depending on local tobacco tax rates, patches are cheaper than cigarettes.

Some pharmacies have begun marketing nicotine patches under private labels; they are 25% to 30% cheaper than branded patches.

In the U.K. nicotine patches cost approximately £15 for a week's supply. For heavy smokers, this compares favorably with cigarettes at £5 for 20 (prices Jan 2007), however light smokers may find that nicotine patches are more expensive than their cigarette addiction. Patches are available without charge on NHS prescription from a GP.

In some countries the nicotine patches are more costly per week than smoking. For example, in Colombia a packet of cigarettes can cost between 3000-4000COP (approximately 86p - £1.20 respectively as of December 2009^[update]). So, at most, a pack a day smoker, would pay 28000COP (approx. £8) a week, whereas the patches available (e.g. NiQuitin) can cost between 35000COP - 40000COP per week.

In the Philippines and other countries drug stores have stopped supplying the patches as they are much more expensive than tobacco and do not sell well. For example: one pack of cigarettes costs from 35 to 80 pesos (US$0.70 - 1.60) depending on the brand, whereas a week's supply of patches costs 850 pesos (US$17.75). There is little demand for nicotine patches.

Alternate uses

Nicotine patches are under study to help relieve the symptoms of post-surgical pain.^[3]

See also

• Murray Jarvik - co-inventor of the nicotine patch
• Smoking cessation
• Nicotine replacement therapy
• Nicotine lozenge
• Nicotine gum
• Transdermal patch
• Nicoderm CQ

References

1. ^ http://whyquit.com/whyquit/A_OTCPatch.html
2. ^ http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/content/PED_10_13X_Guide_for_Quitting_Smoking.asp
3. ^ Nicotine Patch Decreases Post Surgical Pain