What is the Quit Smoking Patch, And Could it Work For You? By Herbert Philips At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

The nicotine patch, or the "quit smoking patch" as it's sometimes called, has been useful for many people who have successfully quit smoking, even after many years of being heavy smokers, and is considered to be a form of what's known as nicotine replacement therapy, or NRT. The quit smoking patch is one of the most popular types of NRT as it's easy to use and doesn't require a prescription. Also, today there are the regular nicotine patches as well as an all-herbal patch that doesn't contain any of the highly addictive substance.

The nicotine, or non-nicotine, patch is transdermal and applied to the skin, usually somewhere on the upper body, with the upper arm being the most often used area. The thin, clear patches are replaced on a daily basis and one should not smoke while wearing one, in fact, doing so is actually rather dangerous as the levels of nicotine in the body would be at an extreme level.

Stop smoking patches come in several different dosages or strengths, making it easier for one to gauge the amount they would need, and reduce or increase as necessary. On average, one cigarette contains about a gram of nicotine or so, and the strongest of patches are 21 grams, making them the choice for heavy smokers or those who smoke a pack or more of cigarettes per day. Gradually, usually after a week or two, the next level down to use would be the 14 gm patch, and then the 7 gm as the cravings decrease and the time between each has increased.

Because the patch does actually contain nicotine, the main substance causing the addiction, many other people also find this form of stopping smoking to be ineffective for them, However, since it's possible to reduce the amount of nicotine you're receiving by choosing a patch with a lower amount, and it is slowly released into the bloodstream, unlike it is while smoking a cigarette, you're more in control of your own progress. While you are still receiving nicotine while coping with cravings and withdrawal symptoms, the body isn't getting the tar and the 4,000 other dangerous chemicals that also come along with cigarette smoke.

Some people with certain medical conditions, such as heart ailments or nervous conditions, should not use the patch, as well as those with overly sensitive skin. In these cases, consult with your own doctor who knows your medical history as to the best course of action to take in order to overcome your nicotine addiction and become smoke-free.

Overall, it's merely a matter of personal choice and what works best for your particular addiction to smoking as some people will find success with the patch alone, and others may need the help of prescription drugs or simply find that quitting cold turkey actually works best for them. Regardless of the method you choose, the key is patience and persistence as you didn't develop a physical, and mental, addiction to the drug overnight, so therefore, expect it to take some time to finally be able to break free and live a healthier, and longer, life in the process.

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