Quit smoking patches are used by many people each year to help them permanently stop smoking, which is a deadly habit that could cause cancer and a host of respiratory issues. These patches can conveniently be purchased over the counter, with no prescription. Given how effective they have been for many people in the past, a lot of state programs give them out for free in order to help people in their quests to quit smoking.

The patches are placed on the upper arm a couple of times a day; they contain nicotine in them. Their core function is to replace the nicotine that a smoker would usually get by smoking cigarettes. This is supposed to alleviate the smokers' cravings for more cigarettes. Many different brands of patches exist, and they all come in varying strengths. A doctor can help a smoker to decide which brand and strength of patch is best for him or her.

hese patches are found to be so effective that they can double our chance of quitting smoking forever. But in order to make these patches work, you will have to make up your mind and stay committed towards your goal because if you are not committed then these patches will not be able to help you. The patch can help you only by supplying nicotine to your body, so that it won't crave nicotine. But the emotional and psychological cravings have to be overcome by you.

You will have to tell yourself that you will not smoke and make yourself strong, so that you don't give up to your cravings. Only patches cannot make you quit smoking. They can just help in the process. But despite the great effects, nicotine patches also have some side effects.

These side effects may include headache, dizziness, diarrhea and vomiting. Some people may also experience burning or itching sensation after applying the patch. But this feeling should subside within one or two hours. The itching is a normal thing as it occurs when the nicotine comes in contact of the skin. All of these symptoms should stay to a normal level. But if they increase and become sever then you must consult a doctor and stop the use of the patches until the doctor tells you to continue. Also all the symptoms doesn't matter how minute, must go away in a couple of days. If they don't then you must see a doctor.