Nicotine Patch Side Effects

There are various products that are used to help quit smoking. These include nicotine gums, sprays, patches, inhalers, lozenges, etc. These products are aimed at relieving the symptoms associated with nicotine withdrawal in people, who try quitting smoking by engaging them in this addiction cure called nicotine replacement therapy. While in some people, this type of therapy may prove beneficial in quitting smoking, some others may not find it useful. It may also happen that some of the users develop side effects to such products. You might have heard about the side effects of nicotine gum, nicotine patch, etc. This article deals with the various aspects of nicotine patch, especially, nicotine patch side effects.

Nicotine Patch

As mentioned above, a nicotine patch is one of the quit smoking products that is used in nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). As nicotine is one of the main causes of addiction to cigarettes, causing nicotine withdrawal symptoms, when smokers try to give up smoking. So, nicotine replacement therapy aims at providing small amounts of nicotine to the body, thereby curbing the physical urge to smoke. This takes care of the withdrawal symptoms too, without getting exposed to the smoke and other harmful products in the cigarette. As per this therapy, the nicotine patch dosage is also reduced gradually, so that the user gets free of the effects of nicotine on the body, completely.

Nicotine patches, otherwise known as nicotine transdermal system patch are now available in different brands. These adhesive skin pads contain a specific amount of nicotine. Normally, nicotine patches come in different strengths, that may vary with brands. While, some of them are meant for 24-hour use, some others have to be worn for 16 hours. This adhesive patch has to be applied on the skin, through which small amounts of nicotine will be absorbed into the blood stream and as there is a continuous presence of nicotine, there will no be cravings for more.

Nicotine patch dosage may vary from person to another and it will be decided by the doctor, on the basis individual requirements. Nicotine side effects may also occur with use of nicotine replacement products. In case of any nicotine patch side effects, you have to contact the doctor immediately.

Side Effects of Nicotine Patch

Even though nicotine patches are touted as one of the safest methods for quitting smoking, it is not totally free of side effects. While, it is true that there are many smokers who have successfully quit the habit of smoking with the help of this product, some people develop nicotine patch side effects too. So, it is always better to have a basic idea about nicotine addiction facts, the use of NRT products, and the possible side effects of such products, beforehand. The following are some possible nicotine transdermal system patch side effects.

Mild and Severe Side Effects
It is said that some mild side effects are common with use of nicotine patches. These include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, nausea, stomach upset, skin irritation at the site of the patch, etc. In most people, such side effects disappear once the body gets adjusted to the product. But, if these symptoms persist or worsen, you must consult your doctor. Even though, severe nicotine patch side effects are very rare, it may happen in some people. Such side effects include irregular heartbeat, chest pain, tremors, nervousness, breathing trouble, etc. In some cases, diarrhea, cold sweats, vision problems, extreme fatigue, seizures, confusion, etc., may also happen. In such cases too, you have to seek immediate medical attention. It has been noted that people, who use nicotine patch for 24 hours experience insomnia as well as abnormal dreams.

Allergic Reactions
Some people may develop allergic reactions to the materials including adhesives in the product and in that case, nicotine patch side effects include itching, burning, stinging, redness, swelling, etc., especially, at the location, where the patch is attached. In some cases, severe allergic reactions like watery eyes, breathing trouble, etc., may also happen. In both cases, you have to discontinue the use of the product and seek medical attention. Severe allergic reactions must be treated as emergency situations.

While, incidences of nicotine patch side effects are claimed to be very low, it cannot be completely ruled out. It has also been claimed that in most cases, side effects to this product are found to be associated with smoking, while using it. In some others, side effects occurred due to some medical conditions like heart diseases, skin problems, etc. So, it is very important to discuss your health problems with the doctor, so as to prevent such side effects. Above all, use nicotine patches, as per the instructions of the doctor. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the proper use of this product.