Patches
Shop Stop‑Smoking Patches for Steady Craving Control
Stop‑smoking patches give you a steady, controlled supply of nicotine through the skin, so you cut cravings without lighting a cigarette. This helps you focus on breaking the habit side of smoking while your body adjusts to lower nicotine levels. In this stop-smoking Patches category, you find clear‑strength patches from trusted brands, so you can follow a step‑down plan that fits how much you smoke and how you want to quit.
Why choose stop‑smoking patches?
- Provide steady support
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- Patches release nicotine slowly over many hours, which helps smooth out cravings and withdrawal instead of spikes and crashes.
- You usually apply one patch to clean, dry skin each morning and leave it on for the full wear time, so you do not need to remember doses through the day.
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- Help you focus on changing habits
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- Because patches reduce physical nicotine cravings, you can put more energy into changing routines and triggers linked to smoking (such as coffee breaks or stress).
- Many people use patches as part of a wider stop‑smoking plan that includes support from online tools, helplines, or local services.
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- Fit discreetly into daily life
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- Patches sit flat underclothing and do not involve chewing, sucking, or vaping, which some users prefer at work or in public.
- You can use patches alone or alongside faster‑acting NRT (gum, spray, lozenges) if a clinician or stop‑smoking adviser recommends combination therapy.
Find the right patch strength for your quit plan
- Typical strength steps
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- Many nicotine patch programmes use three main strengths (for example 21 mg, 14 mg, and 7 mg) to support a gradual step‑down over several weeks.
- Heavier smokers often start on a higher‑strength patch and move down as cravings reduce; lighter smokers may start on a mid‑strength patch.
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- Match strength to smoking level
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- When you choose stop‑smoking patches, read the product guidance on how many cigarettes per day link to each strength and follow that as a starting point.
- If you are unsure which strength suits you, or you take other medicines or have long‑term conditions, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or stop‑smoking adviser before you start.
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- Follow the full course
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- Most patch programmes run for several weeks to three months, with time at each strength; stopping too early may make cravings harder to manage.
- Use the product leaflet to see how long to stay on each step and how to reduce strength safely as your quit attempt progresses.
Use stop‑smoking patches safely and correctly
- Apply patches to the right areas
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- Put the patch on clean, dry, hairless skin between your neck and waist (for example, upper arm, chest, or hip), as product leaflets advise.
- Press the patch firmly in place and smooth the edges so it sticks well and does not peel off during the day.
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- Rotate sites and follow timings
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- Change the patch at the same time each day and use a different skin area to reduce irritation.
- Some products are 24‑hour patches (for all‑day and night support), while others are 16‑hour patches you remove at night; always follow the specific instructions on the box.
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- Watch for side effects and limits
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- Mild skin redness under the patch is common; if irritation becomes severe, does not fade, or you notice other worrying symptoms, remove the patch and seek advice.
- Nicotine patches are not suitable for everyone; read the warnings about heart conditions, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and medicine interactions, and talk to a healthcare professional if any apply to you.
Combine patches with your wider stop‑smoking plan
- Use fast‑acting support for sudden cravings
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- Patches give steady background support; gums, lozenges, sprays, or inhalers can help with sharp, short‑term urges if a clinician says this combination is appropriate.
- Avoid smoking while using stop‑smoking patches unless a healthcare professional specifically tells you how to manage a pre‑quit or cut‑down plan.
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- Plan for triggers and routines
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- Think about when you normally smoke (first thing in the morning, after meals, during stress) and decide in advance what you do instead when you wear a patch.
- Use support such as quit‑smoking apps, text services, or local stop‑smoking services to stay on track and get extra help on difficult days.
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- Know when to ask for extra help
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- If cravings stay very strong despite using a patch correctly, or you slip back into regular smoking, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or stop‑smoking adviser about adjusting your plan.
- If you feel chest pain, severe palpitations, or other urgent symptoms while using patches, seek medical help immediately and mention all products you use.
Shop stop‑smoking patches at Direct Care
Take a practical step towards quitting by choosing stop‑smoking patches that match how much you smoke and the type of daily routine you want. Use this category to compare patch strengths, wear times, and brand guidance, then build a step‑down plan that fits your goals. When you are ready to start, browse our Stop‑Smoking Patches range at Direct Care to find discreet, easy‑to‑use patches you can add to your basket alongside other stop‑smoking aids and everyday health essentials, with clear pricing and convenient delivery options.
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