Nicotinell

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.

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.

• 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.

Effects which may occur include:

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

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.