Safely Buy Habitrol ( Nicotine patch - non Rx ) from Canada Prescriptions Plus.

Indications

Habitrol is a nicotine replacement therapy that uses time-release technology in the form of a nicotine patch to help users quit smoking.

Habitrol contains nicotine, which can help reduce withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking.

Habitrol patches are available by prescription and are intended for use by individuals over 18 years of age who are attempting to quit smoking.

Use and Dosage

If you are using the over-the-counter product, read all directions on the product package before using this medication. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this product and each time you get a refill. Make sure you understand how to apply a new patch and dispose of the used product. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Start this medication on your quit (smoking) day. The patch should be applied to a clean, dry, non-hairy area on the trunk or upper arm. Check the manufacturer’s instruction sheet for recommended areas to place the patch. Do not shave the area. Remove the patch from the package, peel off the protective strip, and immediately apply the patch to the skin. Press firmly for 10 to 20 seconds to make sure the patch stays in place. Be sure the edges are held firmly to the skin. Wash your hands with plain water after applying the patch. Do not use soap.

The best dose for you is the dose that decreases the urge to smoke without side effects from too much nicotine. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, follow your doctor’s orders carefully. Your dose will need to be adjusted to your needs, including your smoking history and medical condition.

Different brands of nicotine patches have different amounts of nicotine and different instructions for how long to leave the patch on the skin (such as for 24 hours or only while awake). Consult your doctor or pharmacist about which brand of patch to use. If you wake up craving cigarettes, the 24-hour patch may be best. If the patch causes vivid dreams or interferes with sleep, you may need to wear the patch only while awake (16 hours each day).

Do not apply the patch to red/cut/irritated skin or over other skin products (such as makeup, lotions, and powders). Do not use the patch if the individual pouch is open or damaged or if the patch is cut, torn, or damaged. Apply the patch to a different area of your body each time to avoid irritation. Wait at least a week before using the same application site. Apply a new patch if your patch falls off.

Do not wear a patch for more than 24 hours. Do not wear more than 1 patch at a time. After removing each patch, fold it in half so it sticks to itself, and discard it in the trash away from children and pets.

Use a new patch each day, applying it at the same time each day to help you remember, usually when you wake up. After several weeks, you will gradually lower your dose (strength of patch) until you no longer need nicotine replacement. It is important to complete the treatment with this medication (8 to 10 weeks). If after the treatment period, you still feel the need to use this medication to prevent you from smoking, talk to your doctor.

If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as tobacco cravings, nervousness, irritability, and headache). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used nicotine for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.

Tell your doctor if you have not been able to quit smoking after using this product for 4 weeks. Some smokers are unsuccessful the first time they try to quit. You may need to stop using this product and try again later. Many people who cannot quit the first time are successful the next time.

Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Serious side effects include:

• Fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest
• Extreme weakness or dizziness
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Redness, swelling, or skin rash where a Habitrol patch was worn (especially if these symptoms do not clear up within 4 days after the patch was removed)

Common side effects of Habitrol may include:

• Dizziness
• Sleep problems (insomnia), strange dreams
• Dry mouth, upset stomach
• Joint or muscle pain
• Headache
• Mild skin irritation where the patch is worn

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.

Cautions

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to nicotine or adhesive tape, or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood vessel disease (such as Raynaud’s disease, stroke), diabetes, heart disease (such as chest pain, heart attack, irregular heartbeat), high blood pressure, liver disease, kidney disease, esophagus problems (such as esophagitis), stomach/intestinal sores (peptic ulcers), certain adrenal problem (pheochromocytoma), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), seizures, skin problems (such as eczema, contact dermatitis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

If you are going to have an MRI test, tell testing personnel that you are using this patch. Some patches may contain metals that can cause serious burns during an MRI. Ask your doctor whether you will need to remove your patch before the test and apply a new patch afterward, and how to do so properly.

Strenuous exercise may raise your skin temperature and increase the amount of nicotine absorbed through the skin. Talk with your doctor about the effects of exercise on this medication.

Avoid exposing the skin under the patch to direct heat sources such as heating pads, electric blankets, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, heated water beds, or prolonged direct sunlight while wearing your patch. Heat sources may cause more drugs to be released into your body, increasing the chance of side effects.

Nicotine and smoking may harm an unborn baby. If you are pregnant, try to stop smoking without using a nicotine replacement product if possible. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Nicotine from smoking and from this medication passes into breast milk and could have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Smoking near an infant can also harm the infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strengths

Habitrol is available in the following form and strengths:

• Habitrol Patches:
  • 7 mg
  • 14 mg
  • 21 mg

FAQ

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply a skin patch as soon as you remember. Do not wear a patch for longer than 24 hours. Do not use extra patches to make up for the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and fast heart rate.

What should I avoid while using Habitrol transdermal?

Avoid using lotions, oils, or moisturizing soaps on the skin where you plan to wear a Habitrol patch, or it may not stick well.

Resources:

1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1421/habitrol-transdermal/details
2. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/habitrol-transdermal.html#side-effects
3. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=051be7ae-6504-c2d8-7424-2e328e4fcfc2