You should use NicoDerm CQ for the full 8 or 10 weeks, depending on which step you start with. It is important to complete treatment. However, if you find that you need to use NicoDerm CQ longer than 8 ̶ 10 weeks, the FDA has determined that is acceptable to do so in most cases. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider if you feel the need to use NicoDerm CQ for longer than 8 ̶ 10 weeks.

Quitting smoking isn’t easy. But you’ll feel a lot better than you would if you quit cold turkey. That's because the NicoDerm CQ patch helps reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms, which can include things like depressed mood, insomnia, irritability, frustration, anxiety, and restlessness. And since the benefit of quitting smoking is such a positive thing for your body and mind, you should start to feel better, both physically and emotionally, because of the decision you’ve made.

Because the active ingredient in NicoDerm CQ is a low, therapeutic dose of nicotine, side effects can include vivid dreams. Some users may experience skin irritation with use of the NicoDerm CQ patch. Carefully read the user guide inside your package for a complete list of possible side effects.

To apply the NicoDerm CQ patch, choose a clean, hairless skin area, apply for 16–24 hours, and rotate locations daily. For step-by-step instructions, view the product packaging.

Choose a start date for your quit and begin to use NicoDerm CQ that day. Upon reviewing the published literature data on the use of NRT products like NicoDerm CQ, the FDA has determined that the use of NRT products with cigarettes does not raise significant concerns. Consult the user’s guide for complete directions and other important information.

NicoDerm CQ keeps a steady flow of nicotine for 16 or 24 hours.

If you smoke more than 10 cigarettes a day, follow the 10 - week plan. Use NicoDerm CQ Step 1 (21 mg) for 6 weeks, NicoDerm CQ Step 2 (14 mg) for 2 weeks and NicoDerm CQ Step 3 (7 mg) for 2 weeks. If you smoke 10 or fewer cigarettes a day, follow the 8-week plan. Use Step 2 (14 mg) for 6 weeks and Step 3 (7 mg) for 2 weeks.

No, NicoDerm CQ can be placed anywhere on the body that is clean and dry at the time of application. Each day apply a new patch to a different place on your skin that is dry, clean and hairless.

NicoDerm CQ doesn’t contain any of the carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) that are found in cigarettes. The NicoDerm CQ program is designed to help you stop smoking. It helps you gradually wean off nicotine over time until you do not need it anymore.

Yes, when you gradually lower nicotine levels, your body adjusts. And following NicoDerm CQ’s 10- or 8-week program really does help improve your chances of quitting successfully.

The standard NicoDerm CQ program lasts 8 or 10 weeks. If you think you need more than the 8 or 10 weeks, consult with your healthcare provider.

No.

Water will not harm the NicoDerm CQ patch if applied properly. You can bathe, swim, or shower for short periods of time while wearing the NicoDerm CQ patch. If you’re concerned that it could loosen on your skin, you can secure it with two pieces of medical or sports tape, placed in an “X” over the patch.

As you progress along your quit journey, your urge to smoke will decrease. Using NicoDerm CQ, you’ll get a leg up right out of the gate.

We suggest wearing the patch on a part of your body that is not tattooed. It is unknown whether the tattoo would affect how the patch would work, or if the tattoo coloring would change.