Which smokers are helped to give up smoking using transdermal nicotine patches? Results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Abstract

Nicotine transdermal patches were most effective for smokers with moderate nicotine dependence and for younger smokers. Early abstinence from smoking was the strongest predictor of sustained cessation. A week's trial of the patch proceeding to longer term use if abstinence is achieved may be an effective policy.