Nicotine patch
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A nicotine patch is a transdermal patch that releases nicotine into the body through the skin. It is usually used as a method to quit smoking. The first patch appeared in 1993.
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[edit] Cost
In the U.S., the nicotine patch costs roughly $20 to $30 per week, although some municipalities, schools, or health plans offer subsidized or free nicotine patches. Depending on local tax rates, the financial cost of the patch compares favorably to the cost of cigarettes.
Some pharmacies have begun marketing nicotine patches under private labels; they are approximately 25% to 30% cheaper than the "name brand" patches next to which they are shelved.
In the U.K. nicotine patches cost approximately £15 for a week's supply. For heavy smokers, this compares favorably with cigarettes at £5 for 20 (prices Jan 2007), however light smokers may find that nicotine patches are more expensive than their cigarette addiction. Patches are, however, available on NHS prescription from a GP.
In some countries the nicotine patches are more costly per week than smoking. For example, in Colombia a packet of cigarettes can cost between 3000-4000COP (approximately 86p - £1.20 respectively, at time of writing). So at most, a pack a day smoker, would pay 28000COP (approx. £8) whereas the patches available (e.g. NiQuitin) can cost between 35000COP - 40000COP per week's supply.
[edit] Issues
[edit] Efficacy
There have been some doubts expressed as to the efficacy of nicotine patches. In trials, the success rates of the experimental groups was significantly lower than would be expected, the presumption being that the low dose control patches made it harder to quit than normal.
Nicotine replacement products (including patches) result in 7% of those attempting to quit smoking succeeding for at least six months. Alternative approaches such as high intensity counseling increase quitting rates 30% to 22% (see Table 12)
The US government report that states the 22% figure above actually encourages use of nicotine patches, stating the following. "Numerous effective pharmacotherapies for smoking cessation now exist. Except in the presence of contraindications, these should be used with all patients attempting to quit smoking."
[edit] Other uses of nicotine patch
Following an observation that tobacco smoking eases effects of schizophrenia, Dr. Tony George from the Yale School of Medicine proposed nicotine patches as a way to treat schizophrenia.[1]
Nicotine patch found to be efficient in reducing post-surgical pain.[2]
Low dose nicotine patches of 7-10 mg per day are being investigated in the treatment of Tourette's Syndrome.
The tendency to induce vivid dreams make them useful for practitioners of lucid dreaming.
Beyond itching, some people have actual allergic reactions to the adhesive patch that may not resolve for days (or longer). If this occurs, it is important to stop and consult a physician. Currently, there are no hypoallergenic patches available in the United States. Although hypoallergenic patches have been tested and found effective in Japan, it is unclear whether or not there is a large enough customer base to support their introduction into the US nicotine replacement therapy market.
[edit] See also
- Smoking cessation
- Nicotine replacement therapy
- Nicotine lozenge
- Nicotine gum
- Transdermal patch
- Nicoderm CQ
