The chemist and druggist, 18/25. December 2010 (issue 6778)

44% more effective at helping smokers quit compared with our previous patch programme at 12 weeks (p<0.005)'2 nicorette invisi 25mg patch Designed to get smokers off to a great start Nicorette Invisi Patch Product Information: Presentation: Transdermal delivery system available in 3 sizes (22.5, 13.5 and 9cm-') releasing 25mg, 15mg and 10mg of nicotine respectively over 16 hours Uses: Nicorette Invisi Patch relieves and/or prevents craving and nicotine withdrawal symptoms associated with tobacco dependence It is indicated to aid smokers wishing to quit or reduce prior to quitting, to assist smokers who are unwilling or unable to smoke, and as a safer alternative to smoking for smokers and those around them Nicorette Invisi Patch is indicated in piegnant and lactating women making a quit attempt If possible. Nicorette Invisi Patch should be used in conjunction with a behavioural support programme Dosage: It is intended that the patch is worn through the waking hours (approximately 16 hours) being applied on waking and removed al bedtime Smoking Cessation Adults (om W years ot age) For best results, most smokers are recommended to start on 25 mg /16 hours patch (Step 1) and use one patch daily for 8 weeks Gradual weaning from the patch should then be initiated One 15 mg/16 hours patch (Step 2) should be used daily for 2 weeks followed by one 10 mg/16 hours patch (Step 3) daily for 2 weeks. Lighter smokers (i.e. those who smoke less than 10 cigarettes per day) are recommended to start at Step 2 (15 mg) for 8 weeks and decrease the dose to 10 mg for the final 4 weeks. Those who experience excessive side effects with the 25 mg patch (Step 1), which do not resolve within a few days, should change to a 15 mg patch (Step 2). This should be conbnued for the remainder of the 8 week course, before stepping down to the 10 mg patch (Step 3) for 4 weeks If symptoms persist the advice McNei of a healthcare professional should be sought Adolescents (12 to 18 years): Dose and method of use are as for adults however, recommended treatment duration is 12 weeks. If longer treatment is required, advice from a healthcare professional should be sought Smoking Reduction/Pre-Ouit Smokers are recommended to use the patch lo prolong smoke-free intervals and with the intention to reduce smoking as much as possible. Starting dose should follow the smoking cessation instructions above i.e. 25mg (Step 1) is suitable for those who smoke 10 or more cigarettes per day and for lighter smokers are recommended to start at Step 2 (15 mg) Smokers starting on 25mg patch should transfer to 15mg patch as soon as cigarette consumption reduces to less than 10 cigarettes per day. A quit attempt should be made as soon as the smoker feels ready When making a quit attempt smokers who have reduced to less than 10 cigarettes per day are recommended to continue at Step 2 (15 mg) for 8 weeks and decrease the dose to 10 mg (Step 3) for the final 4 weeks Temporary Abstinence Use a Nicorette Invisi Patch in those situations when you can't or do not want to smoke for prolonged penods (greater than 16 hours) For shorter periods then an alternative Intermittent dose form would be more suitable (e g Nicorette inhalator or gum). Smokers of 10 or more cigarettes per day are recommended to use 25mg patch and lighter smokers are recommended to use 15mg patch Contraindications: Hypersensitivity Precautions: Unstable cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellrtus, renal or hepatic impairment, phaeochromocytoma or uncontrolled hyperthyroidism, generalised dermatological disorders Angioedema and urticaria have been reported Erythema may occur ft severe or persistent, discontinue treatment Stopping smoking may alter the metabolism of certain drugs Transferred dependence is rare and less harmful and easier to break than smoking dependence. May enhance the haemodynamic effects of. and pain response, to adenosine Keep out of leach and sight of children and dispose of with care Pregnancy and lactation: Only after consulting a healthcare professional Side effects: Very common itching. Common headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting. Gl discomfort: Erythema Uncommon, palpitations, urticana Very rare reversible atrial fibrillation. See SPC for further details RRP (ex-VAT): 25mg packs of 7: (£14 83). 15mg packs of 7: (£14.83); 10mg packs of 7: (£1483). Legal category: GSL PL holder: McNeil Products Ltd, Floxborough Way, Maidenhead, Berkshire. SL6 3UG PL numbers: 15513/0161,15513/0160; 15513/0159 Date of preparation: October 2010 References: 1. Tannesen P. et al. Higher dosage nicotine patches increase one-year smoking cessation rates: results from the European CEASE trial Eur Resp J 1999; 13:238— 246.2, Data on file-CEASE 3 Date of preparation: November 2010 116359 For every cigarette, there's a www.nicorette.co.uk