NiQuitin Clear 21mg Nicotine Patches Step 1 - 14 Patches

NiQuitin Clear 21mg Step 1 patches are clear 24-hour nicotine patches that relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms for heavier smokers starting a quit attempt, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults who smoke more than 10 cigarettes a day and want to stop smoking
• Adolescents aged 12 to 17, following the same schedule for up to 12 weeks in total
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women only after advice from a healthcare professional

Not suitable for: Not for non-smokers, occasional smokers, children under 12, or anyone allergic to nicotine or any of the patch ingredients; lighter smokers (fewer than 10 a day) start on Step 2 (14mg).

How to use

1. Read the enclosed leaflet carefully before use.
2. Apply one new patch each day, preferably soon after waking, to clean, dry, hairless skin. Press firmly for at least 10 seconds.
3. Leave it in place for 24 hours, or remove it at bedtime (after about 16 hours) if preferred. Use a different skin site each time and do not reuse a site for at least seven days.
4. Adults who smoke more than 10 a day: use Step 1 (21mg) for the first 6 weeks, then Step 2 (14mg) for weeks 7-8, then Step 3 (7mg) for weeks 9-10.
5. After handling a patch, wash your hands with water only, not soap. Fold used patches in half, sticky side in, and dispose of them out of reach of children and pets.

Frequently asked questions

Who should start on 21mg?

Adults who smoke more than 10 cigarettes a day start on Step 1. Lighter smokers start on Step 2 (14mg).

How long does a pack of 14 last?

One patch is used per day, so a pack lasts 2 weeks. Step 1 is normally used for 6 weeks.

Do I have to wear it overnight?

No. It can be worn for 24 hours or removed at bedtime after about 16 hours, although morning cravings may be stronger if removed.

Can I shower or swim with it?

Yes, for short periods, if the patch has been applied properly.

Can teenagers use it?

Yes, from 12 years, following the same steps but for no more than 12 weeks in total unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise.

Safety and storage

• Nicotine can cause severe poisoning in children. Keep out of the reach and sight of children, including used patches.
• Talk to a healthcare professional first if you have heart problems, diabetes, epilepsy, stomach ulcers, serious liver or kidney problems, an overactive thyroid, or allergic eczema or dermatitis.
• Keep patches in their sealed sachets until use and do not use if a sachet is damaged.
• Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

This is a medicine. Always read the enclosed leaflet before use. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have an underlying medical condition or take other medicines.