Nicotine patch

Medical uses and effectiveness:

  • Nicotine patches are used as a form of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to help people quit smoking.
  • They effectively reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with nicotine addiction.
  • Combining nicotine patches with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can improve smoking cessation rates in pregnant women.
  • Nicotine patches are being studied for potential use in relieving postoperative pain.
  • Research is being conducted on the use of nicotine patches to treat anxiety, depression, and inattentiveness in individuals with ADHD.

History and development:

  • The first study on the pharmacokinetics of a transdermal nicotine patch in humans was published in 1984.
  • Frank Etscorn filed a patent for the nicotine patch in the United States in 1985.
  • The University of California filed a competing patent application in 1988, leading to an interference action.
  • The U.S. Patent Office issued a priority decision in favor of the Rose et al. patent in 1993.
  • The nicotine patch has been available for medical use since the 1980s.

Ongoing research:

  • Studies have shown that nicotine patches combined with CBT counseling can improve smoking cessation rates in pregnant women.
  • Nicotine patches are being studied for their potential use in treating postoperative pain, early dementia, and late-life depression.
  • Research is ongoing regarding the use of nicotine patches to treat anxiety, depression, and inattentiveness in individuals with ADHD.
  • Two small studies have shown that nicotine patches improve symptoms of ulcerative colitis, but not Crohn's disease.
  • The effectiveness of nicotine patches in various medical conditions is still under investigation.

Application and usage:

  • Nicotine patches are typically worn for 16 to 24 hours.
  • Patches can be removed at night if vivid dreams are experienced.
  • The patch should be applied to a clean, dry area of the skin.
  • The strength of the nicotine patch depends on the individual's smoking habits.
  • Nicotine patches are available for purchase over-the-counter without a prescription.

Side effects and considerations:

  • Common side effects of using a nicotine patch include cough, headache, nausea, light-headedness, insomnia, and skin irritation.
  • Less frequently reported side effects include diarrhea, dizziness, vomiting, and a fast or pounding heartbeat.
  • Side effects such as watery eyes, shortness of breath, and sweating may also occur.
  • A study found that the most common side effects of nicotine patches are cough, headache, and nausea.
  • Side effects can vary depending on the individual and may subside over time.

Nicotine patch Data Sources

Reference URL
Glossary https://www.alternix.com/blogs/glossary-of-terms/nicotine-patch
Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicotine_patch
Wikidata https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2431064
Knowledge Graph https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/m/050xsp
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