Nicotine Replacement Medication
Patches and/or Gum
How to use your Nicotine Replacement Medication
Quitting is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health.
Nicotine Patch
Directions are the same for the 7mg, 14mg and 21mg patch
- Patch should be put on in the morning and worn for 24 hours – Apply the Patch to a clean, dry, hairless area
- Some users may have trouble sleeping with the patch on. It is okay to wear the patch during waking hours and then remove it before going to bed
- Only place Patch on upper body and rotate site everyday (upper arm, shoulder, upper back)
- Sticky side of the patch may cause mild skin irritation, this can be treated with an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream
Nicotine Gum
Directions are the same for both the 2mg and 4mg gum
- 2mg Nicotine Gum (One piece every 1-2 hours, do not exceed 24 pieces in 24 hours)
- 4mg Nicotine Gum (One piece every 1-2 hours, do not exceed 24 pieces in 24 hours)
- Nicotine gum is NOT meant to be chewed like regular gum. Doing so will cause the nicotine to release too quickly, making it less likely to work and possibly causing a sick feeling
- Do not eat or drink for 15 minutes before chewing gum and 15 mins after flavoring is gone
- Chew the gum slowly until it releases a peppery flavor and then “parked” in between the cheek and the gum to allow for nicotine absorption
- Repeat the “chew and park” method with the same piece until the peppery flavor is gone (usually about 30 minutes)
Remember: Balance the Nicotine
**If you smoke more than 1 ½ packs per day, you will require a higher dose of Nicotine Replacement medication to help treat cravings and balance nicotine levels.**
Examples:
- 1 ½ packs per day, you can wear a 14mg + 21mg patch.
- If you smoke 2 or more packs per day, it is safe to wear a two 21mg patches
"I Ran Out."
Remember to call the NYS Smokers’ Quitline for another 2 week supply of patches (FREE)!
Click Here: NYS Smokers Quitline Website
1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-6978487)