How Much Are Nicotine Patches? Prices, Brands and More

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How Much Are Nicotine Patches?

Nicotine patches are one of the most popular ways to quit smoking or vaping. They work by releasing a steady amount of nicotine into your body through the skin, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. But if you're wondering how much nicotine patches cost, you're not alone. Prices vary depending on the brand, strength, and pack size.

Here’s a breakdown of nicotine patch prices in the UK, plus guidance on how to use them effectively—and what happens to your body once you quit smoking.

How Much Do Nicotine Patches Cost in the UK?

Prices can vary by retailer and region, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay for the most popular nicotine patch brands:

1. NiQuitin Patches

  • 21mg, 14mg, or 7mg

  • 7-day supply: approx. £13 – £15

  • 14-day supply: approx. £24 – £27

  • Available in step-down kits (e.g., Step 1, 2 and 3)

2. Nicorette InvisiPatch

  • 25mg, 15mg, or 10mg

  • 7 patches (1-week supply): approx. £13 – £16

  • 14 patches: £25 – £30

  • Known for a discreet design and strong brand reputation

3. Boots NicAssist Patches (own brand)

  • 21mg, 14mg, or 7mg

  • 7 patches: around £10 – £12

  • Offers a more affordable alternative to branded options

4. Tesco or supermarket own-brand patches

  • Usually between £9 – £12 for a 7-day supply

  • Same active ingredients as leading brands but lower in price

On prescription: In many parts of the UK, nicotine patches may be available free on the NHS via local stop-smoking services. Check with your GP or pharmacist.

How to Use Nicotine Patches Correctly

Nicotine patches come in three strengths and are used in a step-down approach to gradually reduce nicotine intake. Most plans begin with a higher strength and move to lower doses over time.

For example:

  • Start with 21mg (or 25mg for Nicorette) if you smoke more than 10–15 cigarettes a day

  • Move to 14mg (or 15mg) after 6 weeks

  • Step down to 7mg (or 10mg) for the final 2–4 weeks

The patch is applied to clean, dry, hairless skin such as the upper arm, shoulder, back, or thigh. Rotate application sites daily to avoid skin irritation.

Patches come in two types:

  • 16-hour patches, worn during the day and removed before bed

  • 24-hour patches, worn through the night (useful if you wake with cravings)

Most people wear them for 8 to 12 weeks in total, with the ultimate goal of completely stopping nicotine use.

Tips for Quitting Smoking or Vaping with Patches

People use nicotine patches to manage cravings while breaking the behavioural habits of smoking. Here are several helpful tips:

Set a clear quit date and commit to it. Begin using the patch on the morning of that day.

Make your home, car, and clothes smoke-free to reduce triggers. Remove ashtrays, lighters, and any leftover tobacco products.

Stay busy and find healthier habits to fill the gaps—chew sugar-free gum, go for walks, or try a new hobby.

Don’t skip patches, even if you feel confident. Consistency helps maintain nicotine levels and reduces relapse risk.

Tell your friends and family. Support makes a huge difference, and others can help keep you accountable.

Consider combining patches with another NRT, such as lozenges or gum, especially if you get sudden cravings.

Free NHS stop smoking services are available in most areas and offer one-to-one support, group sessions, and access to medication.

What Happens to Your Body After You Quit Smoking Using Nicotine Patches?

When you stop smoking and switch to patches, your body begins recovering from tobacco damage while still receiving nicotine in a controlled way. Here's a general timeline of what to expect:

Within 20 minutes
Your heart rate and blood pressure begin to drop to normal levels.

After 8–12 hours
Carbon monoxide levels fall, and oxygen levels start to improve.

Within 24–48 hours
Nicotine starts to leave the body. Your sense of taste and smell begin returning.

By 1–3 weeks
Circulation improves, and breathing becomes easier. Lung function starts to recover, especially if you avoid smoking entirely.

After 1 month
Coughing and wheezing reduce. Energy levels increase. Exercise becomes easier.

After 3 to 9 months
Lung function can improve by up to 10%. Risk of infections like bronchitis drops.

After 1 year
Risk of heart disease is halved compared to someone still smoking. Nicotine dependence is usually reduced or gone, especially if you've weaned off patches by now.

Beyond 5–10 years
Your risk of stroke, lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases continues to fall significantly.

Using nicotine patches helps you get through the hardest part—breaking the physical addiction while your body and mind recover.

Final Word

Nicotine patches in the UK cost between £10 and £30, depending on the brand and pack size. They’re easy to use, widely available, and proven to help people quit smoking. The correct approach involves starting on a high dose, stepping down gradually, and wearing them daily for 8–12 weeks.

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. With nicotine patches and a clear plan, you can take control of your addiction, ease the withdrawal process, and start seeing real improvements in how you feel—day by day.