Nicotine patch

NICODERM CQ

Open Nicotine patch in the interactive console ↗

What it isNicotine transdermal patch (NICODERM CQ, Rx ~1991, OTC 1996) is a neuronal nicotinic receptor agonist for smoking cessation.

Why this oneSteady 16-24 h nicotine delivery provides baseline coverage without reinforcing peaks and works best with gum or lozenge for breakthrough craving.

What limits itSkin irritation and vivid dreams are common; remove at night if dreams or insomnia interfere, and rotate sites.

FDA-approved for

smoking cessation (~1991)

FDA label

Read the full label on DailyMed ↗

FDA dosing	Population	Start	Target	Max
Smoking cessation aid — reduces withdrawal symptoms/craving (>10 cigarettes/day)	Adults	21 mg/day (Step 1, weeks 1–6)	14 mg/day (Step 2, weeks 7–8)	7 mg/day (Step 3, weeks 9–10) then stop
Smoking cessation aid — reduces withdrawal symptoms/craving (≤10 cigarettes/day)	Adults	14 mg/day (Step 2, 6 weeks)	7 mg/day (Step 3, 2 weeks)	7 mg/day then stop

Renal Undefined

Hepatic Undefined

Instructions

Apply one new patch every 24 hours to dry, clean, hairless skin; press for 10 seconds
Rotate to a different skin site each day; do not wear more than one patch at a time
May wear 16 or 24 hours; remove at bedtime if vivid dreams/sleep disturbances
Do not cut the patch; wash hands after applying/removing
Under 18 years of age, ask a doctor before use

Cautions

Ask a doctor before use with heart disease, recent heart attack, or irregular heartbeat (nicotine can increase heart rate)
Uncontrolled high blood pressure
Allergy to adhesive tape or skin problems
Stomach ulcers or diabetes
History of seizures
Taking prescription medicine for depression or asthma (dose may need adjustment)
If pregnant or breast-feeding, use only on advice of a healthcare provider

Adverse reactions

Skin redness/swelling/rash at patch site
Vivid dreams or other sleep disturbances
Symptoms of nicotine overdose (nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, rapid heartbeat)
Irregular heartbeat or palpitations

Pregnancy If pregnant, use only on the advice of a healthcare provider; try to stop smoking without nicotine replacement

Lactation If breast-feeding, use only on the advice of a healthcare provider

NO BOXED WARNINGS

Principal riskLocal irritation; vivid dreams with the overnight patch