NCIt definition : A transdermal patch containing the alkaloid nicotine with nicotine replacement activity.
Upon administration of the patch, nicotine is slowly released into the bloodstream
and, although nicotine binds to nicotinic cholinergic receptors at the autonomic ganglia,
adrenal medulla and at neuromuscular junctions as well, the binding of nicotine to
the receptors in the central nervous system (CNS) appears to be responsible for the
addictive nature of nicotine. Binding to CNS nicotinic acetylcholine receptors causes
the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine which appears to be responsible for the
addiction of nicotine. Administration of nicotine may prevent nicotine craving and
may help with the withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking cessation.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A patch that sticks on the skin and contains a small dose of nicotine,
which enters the blood by being absorbed through the skin. This helps stop nicotine
cravings and relieves symptoms that occur when a person is trying to quit smoking.
A prescription is not needed for nicotine patches.;