We know you want to quit smoking. We also know you heard about all of the negative effects of smoking like cancer, lung disease, heart disease, obesity, and just about every type of disease is associated with smoking. Nicotine is the addictive substance within cigarettes that makes you crave another smoke. But that same substance has a long lasting effect on your health and your wallet. The average American spends close to $2300 per year on cigarettes. Imagine all of the extra vacations, food, or family outings you could have if you quit smoking today!
Patients ask me what I think about nicotine patches and how it is “healthy?” Well we know that smoking is not healthy but anything to help wean down your addiction to smoking is positive. Medicines, therapy, habits, or lower amounts of nicotine to help you quit smoking are all positive since smoking is the leading contributor to early death.
Nicotine patches are easy to use and deliver to the body a measured amount of consistent low levels of nicotine to help you kick your dangerous habit.
Here is how to use it:
Nicotine patches come in three strengths: 7 mg, 14 mg, and 21 mg. We recommend heavy smokers to start with 21 mg then work their way down until they quit. Heavy smokers usually smoke more than 10 cigarettes per day. You should change your patch every 24 hours for 8 to 12 weeks and lower the dose systematically until you quit smoking. The good news is you can wear your nicotine patch at the gym and even in the shower. Apply the patch to clean and dry skin on your arm and dispose of it every 24 hours. Please make sure to keep it away from children and pets.
As you go on this journey you will begin to have fewer cravings to smoke and eventually you will quit smoking. We can help you at Physician Promise. Here when you need us!
