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Get a doctor's approval if you are using drugs for high blood pressure, heart palpitations, or diuretics. Mixing nicotine patches with caffeine, alcohol, vitamins, and acetaminophen, or Tylenol, can also be an issue. 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. Get in touch with a doctor right away. Although patches are safer than smoking, the nicotine may still cause harm to the child. The doctor can advise you on limiting or stopping the patches. The best option is to stop using nicotine entirely. It's rare, but nicotine can raise your heart rate or make your heart's rhythm irregular. Monitor your heart rate and also be aware of any dizziness, blurred vision, headaches, nervousness, nausea, and weakness you experience. Stop using the patches and come up with an alternative plan with your doctor. Anyone allergic to adhesive tape should avoid the patches by default. Note any rashes or swelling forming under the patch. If it is severe or doesn't fade over a few days, stop using the patch and visit a doctor. A little bit of redness and swelling is normal when first applying patches, but it should go away in time. Nicotine patches are sold at different strengths. Start with the patch you need and, if you feel comfortable after 2 to 4 weeks of use, go to the next lowest dose. Continue doing this until you're done with nicotine entirely. This slow decrease reduces withdrawal symptoms. 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. 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.
Research negative drug interactions before using the patches. Speak to a doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Call a doctor immediately if you experience a rapid heartbeat. Tell your doctor if you experience severe allergic reactions. Switch to a lower dose after 2 weeks when quitting nicotine.