Nicorette 15mg/16h Transdermal Patch (Step 2)

Nicorette 15mg/16h Transdermal Patch (Step 2) is a nicotine replacement therapy patch of medium strength, used as the second stage of the 3-step Nicorette programme after several weeks on the Step 1 (25mg/16h) patch, or as a starting dose for moderate smokers advised by a pharmacist to begin directly at this strength. It delivers a steady dose of nicotine through the skin over 16 hours and is available without a prescription at pharmacies in Malaysia.

As the middle stage of the step-down approach, Step 2 helps gradually reduce nicotine dependence before moving on to Step 3 (10mg/16h), the final and lowest-strength stage of the programme. Following the step sequence correctly, rather than staying on one strength indefinitely, gives the best chance of successfully quitting smoking altogether.

Nicotine delivered from the patch is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream at a steady rate over 16 hours, providing a controlled level of nicotine that helps reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings that occur when a person stops smoking. By replacing some of the nicotine previously obtained from cigarettes without the harmful tar and toxins in tobacco smoke, the patch makes it easier to break the smoking habit while gradually reducing dependence as the program moves through lower-strength patches.

Apply one new patch each morning to clean, dry, non-hairy skin on the hip, chest, upper arm, or back, pressing it firmly in place for a few seconds. Remove the patch after about 16 hours, and apply a fresh patch to a different skin site the next day to reduce skin irritation. Step 2 (15mg/16h) is typically used for around 2 weeks after completing Step 1, or as the starting strength for moderate smokers advised to begin directly at this dose by a pharmacist, before progressing to the Step 3 (10mg/16h) patch.

Apply one 15mg/16h patch daily, worn for 16 hours and then removed, typically for about 2 weeks as the middle stage of the step-down program, following completion of the Step 1 (25mg/16h) patch or as directed by a pharmacist. Use only one patch at a time and follow the recommended step duration to gradually reduce nicotine dependence.

Nicorette Transdermal Patches typically have a shelf life of around 2 to 3 years from manufacture when stored correctly and unopened; check the expiry date printed on the sachet and carton before use. Do not use a patch beyond its expiry date, as nicotine release may no longer be reliable.

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, keeping each patch sealed in its individual sachet until ready to use. Keep out of reach and sight of children and pets, and dispose of used patches carefully by folding the sticky sides together, as used patches still contain enough nicotine to be harmful, especially to children and animals.

• Known hypersensitivity to nicotine or any component of the patch
• Non-smokers and children (not intended for use)
• Recent heart attack, unstable or worsening angina, or serious irregular heart rhythm, unless a doctor has advised otherwise
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless a doctor has assessed that the benefits outweigh the risks compared with continued smoking
• Severe skin conditions affecting the patch application sites

• Nicotine can affect how quickly the body processes certain medicines when a person stops smoking, including some medicines for asthma, depression, and heart conditions, so dosage of these may need review
• Theophylline, clozapine, and other medicines broken down via the same liver pathway affected by smoking may reach higher blood levels after quitting, and doses may need adjustment by a doctor
• Avoid combining with other nicotine replacement products or cigarettes at the same time unless directed by a doctor or pharmacist (to avoid excess nicotine intake)
• Caffeine and alcohol intake may need monitoring, as smoking cessation itself can change how the body handles them

• Continue to rotate the application site daily to minimise skin irritation
• Move to Step 2 only after completing the recommended duration of Step 1, or as advised by a pharmacist
• Keep track of cravings and withdrawal symptoms as your body adjusts to a lower nicotine dose
• Do not go back to a higher-strength patch or smoke cigarettes alongside the patch without pharmacist advice
• Stay engaged with any quit-smoking support programme or counselling you have started
• Plan your transition to Step 3 in advance so the step-down continues smoothly

Step 2 (15mg/16h) is the middle stage of the Nicorette 3-step programme, used either after completing Step 1 or as a starting dose for moderate smokers as advised by a pharmacist. Staying on schedule with the step-down programme, rather than remaining on one strength indefinitely, gives the best chance of successfully stopping nicotine use altogether.