Which Nicotine Replacement Product Appeals to You?
Which Nicotine Replacement Product Appeals to You? By Tamar Nordenberg Although they have nicotine in common, the four nicotine replacement products have some important differences. Nicotine Patch Known generically as the nicotine transdermal system, this method has been available in the United States by prescription since 1992 and over-the-counter since July 1996. It is sold OTC under the brand Supplements Reviews names Nicoderm and Nicotrol and by prescription under the names Habitrol and Prostep. Each day, a new patch that looks like a big bandage is applied to a different area of dry, clean, non-hairy skin and left on for the amount of time recommended in the product's labeling. A mild itching, burning or tingling at the site of the patch when it is first applied is normal, but should go away within about an hour. After removing the patch, the skin might be red for up to a day. If the skin develops a rash or becomes swollen or very red, a doctor should be consulted. The patc...