Niquitin Clear (Step 2) 14mg - 14 Patches
What are Niquitin Clear 14mg 24 Hour (Step 2) Patches?
These Niquitin Clear Patches are a treatment that helps people to quit smoking. The active ingredient in the patches is nicotine, the same that is found in cigarettes. The idea of these patches is that over time, they reduce cravings for cigarettes. This is known as Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). NRT is intended to help someone reduce nicotine dependency over time. These patches can also be used as a substitute for a cigarette when smoking is not a possibility.
What causes nicotine dependency?
Nicotine dependency is an addiction to smoking that is caused by smoking over time. The dependency is caused by the tobacco entering the lungs when inhaling a cigarette and it getting to the lungs. From there, the nicotine in the tobacco gets to the brain, which causes a release of the neurotransmitter dopamine. A neurotransmitter is released by the brain and it controls mood and behaviours. Dopamine itself improves the mood and gives off the feeling of pleasure. This feeling causing cravings as the body feels the need for dopamine. As a result, cravings can be triggered by a number of actions or routines in the day. Knowing what these are can help when it comes to quitting smoking.
Who are these Niquitin patches suitable for?
These patches are suitable to be used by adults and children aged 12 and over. They should not be used by anyone who is allergic to the ingredients contained in the patches. They should also not be used by a non-regular smoker. If any of the following apply to you, then speak to a doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before using:
- In hospital because of a heart attack, heart problems, or a stroke
- Are diabetic
- Have serious kidney or liver problems
- Have an overactive thyroid gland or adrenal gland tumour
- Have had an allergic reaction in the past from NRT
- Have allergic eczema or dermatitis
- Have had a stomach ulcer
- Ever experienced a seizure
You should also consult a professional for advice if you are currently using any other form of medication.
Can someone who is pregnant or breastfeeding use these patches?
Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding and is looking to quit smoking should do so without using any form of NRT first. If this is not possible, then speak to a medical professional about using NRT.
How should Niquitin Clear 14mg 24 Hour (Step 2) Patches be used?
If you smoke more than 10 cigarettes a day, start your treatment with step 1 patches first. Otherwise, use these patches in order to quit smoking. If you start with step 1, use these patches for 2 weeks after using the step 1 patches for 6 weeks. If starting with step 2 patches, use them for 6 weeks. In both cases, switch to step 3 patches after using. When applying the patch, make sure that the skin is clean and there is no hair on the skin. After applying, ensure that you press down for 10 seconds to hold it into place. Leave the patch on for 24 hours before leaving, or replace at bedtime if you are pregnant. Do not apply a patch to the same part of the skin for at least 7 days. After applying any patch, make sure to wash your hands. If the patch falls off, replace it with another patch, but place it on a different part of the skin.
Are there any side effects?
Like with many types of medication, there is a chance of side effects. Side effects can also occur as a result of stopping smoking, which includes:
- Tiredness
- Depressed
- Irritable
- Nervous
- Anxious
- Drowsy
- Dizzy
- A headache
- Sleep disturbances
You can also get side effects as a result of the sticking site and an allergic reaction. If you experience an increased heart rate, stop using these patches and reduce the dosage. Other potential side effects include:
- Heart palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling sick
- Indigestion
- Stomach pains
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Joint or muscle pains
- Skin redness and itching
- Seizures
If you notice any side effect, stop using and speak to a doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist as soon as possible. You can also record any side effect that you notice using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
More Information
This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk
If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.
Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.
Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.
Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.
Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction
For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.
If you are concerned about addiction to 'over the counter' medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:
