Drug Name

Nicotinell

Drug Uses

Nicotinell patch is a 24 hour nicotine replacement medication.

Types:

• Nicotinell (large) each contains 52.5mg of nicotine. Average absorption rate 21mg/24 hours;
• Nicotinell (medium) each contains 35mg of nicotine. Average absorption rate 14mg/24 hours;
• Nicotinell (small) each contain 17.5mg of nicotine. Average absorption rate 7mg/24 hours.

How Taken

Nicotinell patch programme:

• Step 1 Nicotinell large = 21 mg/24 hours for 3-4 weeks then;
• Step 2 Nicotinell medium = l4mg/24 hours for 3-4 weeks then;
• Step 3 Nicotinell small = 7mg/24 hours for 3-4 weeks.

Allow yourself time to put the patch on. Decide where you will put the patch. It is important to choose a hairless area of skin to make sure that it sticks properly. We recommend the front or side of the chest, the back or the upper arm. If it does not stick successfully to these areas you may try it on any other body site (such as the outer thighs or top of the buttocks). Avoid areas where the skin creases (such as over a joint) or where the skin folds when you move. Avoid skin which is red or irritated.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Nicotinell patches are used to help you stop smoking as part of an overall treatment programme. When you apply the patch to your skin, nicotine passes through your skin and into your body. The Nicotinell patch programme involves up to 3 steps; each with a different patch size. As your body adjusts to not smoking, you should gradually reduce the dose of Nicotinell over a period of up to a maximum of 12 weeks until you no longer need to use the patches.

Missed Dose

If you miss to place a patch, just do it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next session, skip the the one and go back to your regular patching schedule.

Storage

Store Nicotinell at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Nicotinell out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

• You must not smoke whilst you are using these patches.
• Do not use any other nicotine product whilst you are using these patches.
• These Nicotinell patches should not be used by non-smokers or occasional smokers.
• Pregnant and breast feeding women are advised to give up smoking without the use of nicotine products. Do not use if you are pregnant or breast feeding except on the advice of your doctor.
• Do not use if you are under 18 years of age except on your doctor's advice.

Possible Side Effects

Effects which may occur include:

• headache or dizziness; muscle discomfort; mild stomach upset; difficulty in sleeping.

More Information

These patches are not suitable for non-smokers or occasional smokers. They may develop signs of nicotine overdose including headache, sickness, stomach pains and diarrhoea. If this happens, remove the patch at once and contact your doctor or nearest hospital casualty department immediately.