Are nicotine patches safe for long term use?

Current guidelines FDA recommend that the patch be used for just eight to 12 weeks before consulting a healthcare provider. “Provider monitoring of longer-term treatment isn’t needed,” Hitsman said. “We know that it’s safe and effective up to six months; people should be able to stay on it on their own.”

Do nicotine patches affect lungs?

Nicotine gum and patches do not expose the lungs to much nicotine, not even from the bloodstream, Dr. Conti-Fine said, so its damaging effects on the lungs are unlikely to show up in people who use those products and do not smoke.

How long can you use smoking patches?

Don’t wear two patches at once unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider. Over time (typically after 8 to 12 weeks), you should lower the dose with the goal of stopping use of the patch completely. The nicotine patch is typically worn for 24 hours. The patch can even be worn when showering or bathing.

How much does nicotine replacement therapy increase the odds of quitting?

Current evidence suggests that, all of the commercially available forms of NRT (gum, transdermal patch, nasal spray, inhaler and sublingual tablets/lozenges) increase their chances of successfully stopping smoking. NRTs increase the rate of quitting by 50 to 70\%.

What damage does nicotine cause?

Nicotine is a dangerous and highly addictive chemical. It can cause an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, flow of blood to the heart and a narrowing of the arteries (vessels that carry blood). Nicotine may also contribute to the hardening of the arterial walls, which in turn, may lead to a heart attack.

Is nicotine gum or patches better?

There was moderate quality evidence that higher dose nicotine patches were more effective than moderate dose patches, but no evidence that double dose patches were more effective. Likewise, there was moderate quality evidence that higher dose gum was more effective, but perhaps only for more dependent smokers.

Can I cut my nicotine patch in half?

You cannot adjust your dose by cutting a patch, even though the smallest patch contains half the nicotine contained in the next size up. Cutting a patch will cause the nicotine to evaporate rapidly, making all the pieces useless.

What is better Nicorette gum or patches?

Patches can provide a steady level of nicotine in the body to help lessen withdrawal, while the gum can be used to more quickly relieve cravings as they happen. If you have strong cravings while using the nicotine gum, make sure you are using a strong enough dose and that you are using the gum often enough.