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The use of transdermal nicotine delivery systems for smoking cessation has increased dramatically. Although these systems can be effective, concerns about the potential for skin irritation and contact sensitization have been raised. This study evaluated the potential for contact sensitization with one transdermal system (Nicoderm) in 186 healthy smokers 18 to 65 years old.
During the first phase of the study, all smokers wore an active transdermal nicotine patch for 42 days. After a two- week wash-out period, a four-day double-blind challenge was conducted in which subjects wore both active and placebo patches concurrently. After the patches were removed, the skin was evaluated for signs of irritation and patients' symptoms were noted.
The ni…