Indications
Habitrol is a type of nicotine replacement therapy that assists individuals over 18 years of age with quitting smoking. It belongs to a family of medications known as nicotine replacement therapies. Nicotine patches release a small amount of nicotine into the body to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with quitting smoking.
Nicotine withdrawal can cause symptoms such as increased appetite, irritability, mood swings, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating. By delivering controlled amounts of nicotine to the body, Habitrol helps alleviate these withdrawal symptoms and replaces the nicotine that the person previously received through smoking cigarettes.
Uses and Dosage
When applied to the skin, the nicotine patch delivers a continuous dose of nicotine over a 24-hour period. Over time, the dosage is decreased until the individual no longer experiences cravings for nicotine and can cease using the medication. For optimal effectiveness, it can be used with a comprehensive smoking cessation program.
Habitrol Patch, Transdermal 24 Hours is a nicotine patch that is used as a stop smoking aid. Here are the general instructions on how to use the patch:
- Choose a clean, dry, and hairless area of skin on your upper arm or hip. Avoid areas that are oily, irritated, broken, or have scars.
- Remove the patch from its packaging and peel off the protective layer.
- Apply the sticky side of the patch directly onto your skin, pressing firmly for about 10 seconds to ensure it sticks well.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after applying the patch.
- Wear the patch for 24 hours before replacing it with a new one. You may wear the patch while showering or bathing.
- If the patch falls off, replace it with a new one.
- Gradually decrease the strength of the patch used over several weeks until it is no longer needed.
To help you quit smoking, most people will start by using a 21 mg/day nicotine patch for 6 weeks. After the first 2 weeks, your initial dose of nicotine will be reassessed. The next stage of therapy will gradually reduce the dose of nicotine. If you successfully complete the first 6 weeks, you should start using a 14 mg/day patch for 2 weeks, followed immediately by a 7 mg/day patch for another 2 weeks. In general, treatment will take 8 to 12 weeks. Do not use Nicotine for longer than 3 months, and you must stop smoking completely when taking this medication.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Habitrol (Nicotine patch - non-Rx):
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
- Irritability
- Upset stomach
Serious Side Effects of Habitrol (Nicotine patch - non-Rx):
- Chest pain
- Feelings of dependence on the medication or difficulty stopping the medication after your treatment is done
- Irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations
- Leg pain
- Mild itching, burning, redness, or tingling in the area where the patch was applied
- Severe stomach upset that does not go away
- Skin rash or swollen skin
- Skin redness caused by the patch that does not go away after 4 days
Form and Strength
Habitrol (Nicotine patch - non-Rx) is available in the following forms and strength:
Habitrol: Patches
- 7 mg
- 14 mg
- 21 mg
Caution
- Nicotine can increase your heart rate and blood pressure.
- Use of nicotine patches is not recommended for individuals with recent heart attacks or angina.
- Use of nicotine patches may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure that is not well controlled.
- Nicotine patches may interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, and herbal supplements.
- The use of nicotine patches is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- The patches may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
- Nicotine patches should be used as part of a comprehensive quit smoking program that includes behavioral support and counseling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Habitrol be used with other medications?
Talk to a doctor before using Habitrol with other medications, as some medications may interact with nicotine or affect your ability to quit smoking.
How long does it take for Habitrol to work?
Generally, Habitrol products are used over an 8-week step-down program to gradually reduce the amount of nicotine over time.
Can Habitrol be used by everyone?
Habitrol may not be suitable for everyone, so talk to a doctor before starting any smoking cessation program.
Can I use Habitrol products if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Talk to a doctor before using Habitrol products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as nicotine can potentially harm a developing fetus or be passed through breastmilk.
Resources
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=051be7ae-6504-c2d8-7424-2e328e4fcfc2
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1421/habitrol-transdermal/details
- https://www.keahealth.com/product-category/habitrol/
- https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/nicotine,habitrol.html
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/habitrol
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