It may depend on the type of stop smoking treatment you’re using, and not everyone gets them, but common side effects include finding it hard to sleep, headache, feeling sick, dizziness, skin rash and itching. If you get any side effects, you should discuss these with our clinician.
Serious side effects with stop smoking treatments are rare, but if you experience agitation, behavioural changes, or depressed mood you should get medical advice right away. You should go to hospital immediately if you experience any suicidal thoughts, allergic reactions or a lupus skin rash (or symptoms of lupus that worsen).
Seizures are uncommon, and are more likely if you take too much treatment. If you have a seizure, seek urgent medical attention and don’t take any more of your stop smoking medication.
NRT can have side effects too. They’re normally mild, but if you find that they persist and cause you discomfort, let your GP know. They may need to adjust your dose, or explore alternative NRT options with you. Side effects include headache, dizziness, an upset stomach, sleeping difficulties (and sometimes vivid dreams), irritation of the skin if you’re using patches, and a sore nose, throat and eyes if you’re using a nasal spray.
You should always read the package leaflet that comes with your treatment before starting to use it.