Nicotine Patch Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Nicotine patches are transdermal adhesives that are applied to the skin, introducing nicotine into the body. Nicotine patches are available over-the-counter at local pharmacies and other retailers. The patch helps people quit smoking cigarettes via nicotine replacement therapy (or NRT for short). The nicotine content helps to minimize symptoms experienced during nicotine withdrawal.
The side effects commonly found when using nicotine patches include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, watering eyes and redness or swelling at the site of the patch. People who suffer from overactive thyroid, stomach ulcers, heart disease, diabetes or kidney disease may not be suitable candidates for nicotine patches.[1]
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| Brand names | Habitrol, Nicoderm C-Q, Nicotrol, ProStep[1] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Various |
| Uses | Treats nicotine withdrawal[1] |
| Common side effects | Headache and nausea[1] |
| Who should not take nicotine patch | Active smokers, as there is risk of overdose[2] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Nicotine Patch Side Effects
Serious side effects of nicotine patches include seizures, severe rash or swelling, abnormal heartbeat, constricted breathing and chest pain.[1] Such severe nicotine side effects may result from nicotine overdose.
Common (and less serious) side effects of nicotine patches include dizziness, runny stool, headache, upset stomach, and redness or swelling at the site where the patch is applied.[1]
There are also side effects to quitting smoking, which are not caused by the patch. The nicotine patch can actually help relieve side effects like weight gain, irritability, headache and problems concentrating.[3]
Drug Side Effects
Nicotine Patch Allergic Reactions
Those using nicotine patches may be allergic to the active ingredient (nicotine), to the adhesive that makes it stik to the skin, or to inactive ingredients. Either allergy is uncommon. In rare but dangerous cases of nicotine patch allergies, users may experience skin rash, itching and swelling of oral areas, dizziness or breathing problems. Any of these symptoms is reason to seek out prompt medical help.[3]
Nicotine Patch Precautions and Warnings
- Nicotine can cause harm to unborn children and pass into breast milk, causing possible harm to breastfed children.[3]
- Wearing a nicotine patch while receiving an MRI may cause the patch to burn the skin. This is due to aluminum content.[3]
- Smoking or using other nicotine products while using nicotine patches can result in nicotine overdose.[1]
- Medications for high blood pressure, water pills, caffeine and insulin may interact with nicotine patches.[1]
- Extreme physical activity can cause more nicotine than usual to be released from the patch. This is due to elevated temperature of the skin.[3]
- Exposing the treated area to hot or warm objects like heated blankets or sun lamps can cause too much nicotine to be transferred to the skin. The same applies to saunas, hot tubs and other hot conditions.[3]
Also See: Drug Side Effects, Nicotine Patch Coupons, Chantix Coupons, Clonidine Side Effects, Wellbutrin XL Side Effects, Zyban Side Effects
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