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Nicotine Replacement Therapy - FAQs

  • NRT replaces (at least partially) nicotine delivered by cigarettes. It is absorbed through the bloodstream and helps to reduce the severity of cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

  • Combination NRT is the use of a long-acting patch plus an additional form of short-acting NRT by mouth on an as-needed basis.

    The patch provides 24-hour craving control while the short-acting NRT helps fight cravings.

    Along with your willpower, NRT can double your chances of quitting smoking for good. Combination NRT has been clinically proven to even further increase your chances of successful quitting.

  • Your Rexall Pharmacist can help you determine how much NRT you need. If you are experiencing nausea, dizziness or headache, you may be receiving too much nicotine and should speak with your Rexall Pharmacist.

    If you are experiencing strong, unmanageable cravings or continuing to smoke while on NRT, you may need your NRT dose adjusted.

  • Thousands of toxins are present in tobacco and cigarettes; it is the combustion products that are harmful, NOT nicotine itself.

    NRT delivers nicotine without the thousands of dangerous chemicals.

  • If you slip up and have a cigarette, don’t be too hard on yourself. It is perfectly safe to continue using NRT. There is no need to stop taking NRT or remove the patch.

  • Quitting smoking is a journey and we are here to help you along the way. You can either quit smoking completely or reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke gradually over time.

    Our Rexall Pharmacists can help you choose the approach that will work best for you.

  • Try to change the area on which you apply the patch. For example you can try alternating two different areas every other day or move around a circle every 7 days.

    If one brand of patch keeps irritating your skin, try a different brand.

    If skin irritation persists despite the above solutions, speak to your Rexall pharmacist who can help provide a solution.

  • When pressed and held for 30 seconds on a clean, dry and hair-free part of the body, the patch is designed to stick to your skin for up to 24 hours. If it becomes loose, you can try:

    • Ensuring there is no lotion/cream on the skin.
    • Changing the area of the body where the patch is being applied (upper arms and torso are preferred).
    • Pressing the patch for up to 3 minutes.

    If you experience excessive sweating, speak to your Rexall pharmacist for solutions.