Nicotine Replacement Therapy: One Patch Doesn't Fit All

Submitted by Vanessa Tue 04/20/2010

Share on Tumblr

The most effective length of time for using the nicotine patch may vary among smokers.

The Study

Previous research has shown that about 3/4 of smokers metabolize nicotine from nicotine replacement patches more quickly than others. Because of this difference, smokers who break down nicotine faster may have more success with drugs like bupropion (sold as Zyban).

A newer study, scheduled for release today, found that the 1/4 of smokers who metabolize nicotine slowly do better when they use the patch for six months instead of the standard 2 months.

Why Is This Important?

Current nicotine replacement therapies recommend the same dosage and length of treatment without considering the rate at which the user metabolizes nicotine. For at least 1/4 of smokers, this means the current recommended length of treatment with a nicotine patch--2 months--may not be the most effective therapy. This study highlights the need to more closely tailor smoking cessation treatments to particular smokers, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

I just couldn't imagine how

Submitted by LuzA on Tue, 04/20/2010 - 20:39.

I just couldn't imagine how things get worse about this nicotine that can almost kill a person.If we just know how to put things in moderation,then there will be no such issue like this.Yet another kid has been poisoned due to smokeless tobacco poisoning.This makes me wonder how much longer it is going to be before parents learn to take accountability for their addictions.Sure we can blame the cigarette industries for their pretty packaging or blame the advertisers for making the product appeal to children.When are we going to take a step back and ask where the parents were when their child got a hold of their nicotine?I understand accidents happen and mistakes are made, but this isn't an isolated incident.Come on parents we know tobacco is poisonous and we hear of it poising children all the time so when are we going to stop putting it in children's reach.If you wouldn't leave your loaded gun where a child can reach it you shouldn't leave your tobacco products either because they both have the potential of death to a child.

Try our self tests for:

: Call to Speak to a Specialist

Call 877-425-7312 any time to discuss treatment options if you or a loved one has a problem with addiction.

Treatment Center State and City Search

Select a state from the list below to begin your search for a treatment center that is right for you.

Support Groups

SupportGroups.com

For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.

Online Support Groups

The information provided on MyAddiction.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of MyAddiction.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.