That’s it, your decision is made: you have chosen to quit smoking. Congratulation! On the other hand, you hesitate between the different smoking cessation aid options available to you. Have you ever heard of nicotine patches? Find out if these are right for you!

NICOTINE PATCHES: A FIRST LINE CHOICE

Smoking is a major health issue in North America. Over the years, more and more smokers have managed to break free from the slavery of cigarettes. Perhaps you have made a few attempts in the past which so far have been unsuccessful. Never mind, have confidence in your ability to find the right strategies to achieve your goals… for good!

Quitting smoking can cause several very bothersome symptoms, such as irritability, sleeplessness, difficulty concentrating and headaches. This is due to the lack of nicotine, a substance contained in cigarettes that creates a strong physical and psychological dependence.

Nicotine patches are a frequently used option when quitting smoking. They are part of the category of nicotine replacement therapy, that is, they gradually lower the level of nicotine in the blood. This helps reduce unpleasant withdrawal symptoms and cravings, without exposing you to the various toxic products in cigarettes.

Since these products contain nicotine, it is important not to smoke during the treatment. Otherwise, you risk exposing yourself to too much nicotine. Nicotine overdose can cause dizziness, palpitations or nausea, among others. Plus, not smoking dramatically increases your chances of success.

OPTIMAL USE OF STAMPS

Nicotine patches come in three different strengths: 21 mg, 14 mg, and 7 mg. The initial dosage depends on the amount of cigarettes smoked daily. The total duration of treatment is usually 12 weeks. Your pharmacist can help you determine which dosage to start with, but the following table summarizes the duration of each step depending on the number of cigarettes smoked per day:

A new nicotine patch should be applied daily, at about the same time each day. The patch should be applied to a clean, healthy, hairless area on the trunk or upper arm. A new location for the patch should be chosen each day to limit skin irritation. In addition, you have to wait a week before reusing the same location.

SAFE USE OF STAMPS

Nicotine patches are a safe option that can help you quit smoking. However, people with a general skin problem or an allergy to tape should not use the patches. In addition, certain precautions exist in relation to the use of nicotine replacement therapy. If you have any health problems, are pregnant or breastfeeding, a discussion with your pharmacist will help you determine if this treatment is right for you.

The main side effects of using the nicotine patch are irritation of the skin, headache, insomnia, and abnormal dreams. If you experience any side effects, talk to your pharmacist before stopping use of the patch. There are some simple tips that can greatly reduce these side effects.

When changing your nicotine patch, it is important that you dispose of the old patch safely. Used patches contain enough nicotine to poison children and pets. Take the open protective bag from the new patch and put the used, folded patch in it. Then dispose of it in the garbage, out of the reach of children and animals.

REIMBURSEMENT AND INSURANCE

Although nicotine patches are available over the counter, a prescription is required in order to obtain insurance reimbursement. However, a doctor’s prescription is no longer the only way to proceed. This is because most pharmacists can prescribe nicotine patches for you if you meet certain conditions.

The Régie de l’Assurance Maladie du Québec (RAMQ) covers 12 consecutive weeks of treatment once a year. Private plans offer at least coverage equivalent to that of the RAMQ, and sometimes even more. Ask your pharmacist or your insurer for more details.

If you take the initiative to quit smoking without help, your chances of long-term success are low. It is estimated that, without help, only 1 in 20 people will be able to quit smoking for good. Using a smoking cessation aid such as nicotine patches increases your chances of success, especially if you are on a comprehensive smoking cessation program at the same time with the help of a healthcare professional. Put the odds on your side to succeed; you will benefit from it for the rest of your life!