Every day, quitters put a patch on some part of their body where it is comfortable to them, usually an arm. It stays on even during a shower or a bath. Fresh patches are applied each day to different areas of the body. Patches come with different amounts or doses of nicotine. Doctors usually start people off with larger-dose patches which deliver more nicotine.
Doctors prescribe lower-dose patches when they think people can get along with less nicotine.
Tapering off too fast or going off the patches too soon can quickly lead to relapse. And keep all patches out of the reach of children and pets. Some people get a headache, upset stomach or feel dizzy. Others have diarrhea, feel weak or notice blurry vision. Strange dreams have also been reported as an occasional side effect.