Some pouches may have a dotted line on 1 end. Follow the line to avoid damaging the patch.
Avoid touching the sticky part of the patch, which is under the protective strip, as much as possible.
If you are hairy, shave off hair as needed to place the patch. To ensure the patch sticks, try to find the smoothest, driest, and most hairless spot possible, such as the inside of your upper arm. Avoid placing the patch in any spots that are oily, irritated, burned, or broken out. Also avoid placing it on a tattoo, since it’s uncertain how this affects the patch.
Make sure the edges of the patch are firmly against your skin. You can use your fingers to lightly press down any spots that feel loose.
Always keep the patches and wrappings out of the reach of children and pets.
Alternatively, look for medical waste disposal units in your area. Some medical facilities offer this service along with some governments throughout the year. Contact your local government for more information.
Don’t forget to wash your hands again after handling the patches.
Drugs for anxiety and depression, such as Wellbutrin, also interact with nicotine patches. Always let your doctor know any drugs you are taking to avoid adverse reactions.
The best option is to stop using nicotine entirely.
Stop using the patches and come up with an alternative plan with your doctor.
A little bit of redness and swelling is normal when first applying patches, but it should go away in time.
Start with the 21 mg patch if you smoke more than 11 cigarettes in a day, and the 14 mg patch if you smoke less than that. [14] X Research source Since these patches are sold over the counter, this is something you can do on your own. However, contact your doctor if you have any concerns.
