How to Use Nicotine Patches

Read the instructions that come in the box

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product is right for you. They can determine an appropriate starting dose and a plan for using it.

Your healthcare provider may recommend that you use more than one patch at a time during the first few weeks of quitting. This depends on the amount of tobacco you use. Many people find this helps handle cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. If you have questions, talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Other information about nicotine patches

The following are standard dosing guidelines for nicotine patches. As with any new medication, check with your doctor or pharmacist about the type and dose of medication that is right for you.

• For cigarette smokers:
  • If you smoke more than 40 cigarettes per day (2 packs), use two 21 mg patches each day.
  • If you smoke more than 1 pack but less than 2 packs per day (21-39 cigarettes per day), use two 14 mg patches, or one 14 mg patch and one 21 mg patch each day.
  • If you smoke 10-20 cigarettes per day, use either a 14 or a 21 mg patch each day.
  • If you smoke less than 10 cigarettes per day, start with one 14 mg patch per day.
  • Increase or decrease your dose depending on side effects and how the medication makes you feel. After 4-6 weeks, begin reducing the dose of nicotine by 7-14 mg steps. Continue reducing your dose of nicotine every 2-4 weeks.
• For smokeless tobacco users:
  • If you use more than 3 tins, cans, or pouches per week, start with two 21 mg patches per day (42 mg per day).
  • If you use 2-3 tins, cans, or pouches per week, start with one 21 mg patch per day.
  • If you use less than 2 tins, cans, or pouches per week, start with one 14 mg patch per day.
  • Increase or decrease your dose depending on side effects and how the medication makes you feel. After 4-6 weeks, begin reducing the dose of nicotine by 7-14 mg steps. Continue reducing your dose of nicotine every 2-4 weeks.

Listen to Dr. Hurt talk about how to use nicotine patches