NICODERM^® patches generally stick well to most people's skin. However, if your patch falls off, put on a new one, making sure you select a non-hairy, non-irritated area of skin that is clean and dry.

If the soap you use has lanolin or moisturizers, the patch may not stick well. Using a different soap may help. Body creams, lotions and sunscreens can also cause problems with keeping your patch on. Do not apply creams or lotions to your skin where you will put the patch. If your skin is oily, or if you have trouble getting the patch to stick, try cleaning your skin with rubbing alcohol first.

If you have followed the directions and the patch still doesn't stick to you, try using medical adhesive tape over the patch.

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Water won't harm the NICODERM^® patch you're wearing. You can bathe, shower, swim or use a hot tub for short periods while you're wearing the NICODERM^® patch.

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When first applying the NICODERM^® patch, some people experience mild itching, burning or tingling. These symptoms are normal and should go away within an hour. After you remove a NICODERM^® patch, the skin under the patch might be somewhat red. Your skin should not stay red for more than one day.

If you get a skin rash after using a NICODERM^® patch, or if the skin under the patch becomes swollen or very red, remove the patch, wash the area with water (do not use soap) and see your pharmacist or doctor. Do not put on a new patch. You may be allergic to one of the components of the NICODERM^® patch.

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Most smokers should start with the STEP 1 Patch (21 mg/day).

But, if one or more of the following apply to you, you should start with the STEP 2 Patch (14 mg/day): you smoke fewer than 10 cigarettes a day; or you weigh less than 45 kg (100 lb); or you have heart disease and your doctor recommended NICODERM^®.

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Remove the NICODERM^® patch two (2) hours before engaging in prolonged, strenuous exercise, as this may increase nicotine absorption through the skin.

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Completing the full 10-week Steps to Success program is important. The step-down treatment period allows you to gradually reduce the amount of nicotine you get, rather than stopping suddenly, and will increase your chances of quitting successfully.

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The NICODERM^® patch is very safe when used as directed – there is little risk of becoming dependent. With Nicotine Replacement Therapy, blood concentrations of nicotine peak more slowly, reaching much lower levels than when you smoke. You don't experience the nicotine "rush," but you also don't experience the painful cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting.

As with any medication, there are precautions to take. It's very important to read the package and the insert that comes with the NICODERM^® product. You may wish to contact your local pharmacist or physician to find out more about NICODERM^®.

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Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using NICODERM^® patches if you have or have had any of the following:

• a heart attack (myocardial infarction)

• irregular heart beat (arrhythmia)

• high blood pressure

• thyroid problems

• stomach problems

• treatment of circulation disorder of the brain

• heart disease

• skin diseases

• rashes from adhesive tape or bandages

• allergies to drugs

• heart pain (angina)

• stroke

• kidney or liver disease

• stomach ulcers

• diabetes requiring insulin

• blood circulation problems

• are taking any prescription drugs

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You should not use NICODERM^® patches if you:

• Continue to smoke, chew tobacco, use snuff, nicotine chewing gum or other nicotine-containing products.

• Are an occasional or non-smoker.

• Are under 18 years of age.

• Are pregnant or nursing.

• Have a generalized skin condition (e.g., hives, rash).

• Have ever had an allergic reaction to NICODERM^® or nicotine.

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A slip is not necessarily a fall. We know how hard it is to quit smoking, so if you do slip, don’t beat yourself up. There are bound to be some weak moments when you are quitting. One cigarette doesn’t mean that you’ve relapsed so commit to starting again.

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NICODERM^® is available from your pharmacist, and at most major retailers nationwide.

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NICODERM^® is available without a prescription. Check with your doctor/pharmacist/employer benefits plan to see if you can be reimbursed for NICODERM^®

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The amount of nicotine varies depending on the stage of the ten-week quit plan. Step 1 boxes contain patches that deliver 21 mg of nicotine each. Step 2 boxes contain patches that deliver 14 mg of nicotine each. Step 3 boxes contain patches that deliver 7 mg of nicotine each.

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One patch a day is all you need. NICODERM^® releases a steady stream of nicotine into your bloodstream throughout the day.

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Our live support line is available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm EST, Monday to Friday, at 1-866-311-5659.

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