Visual scoring and laser Doppler perfusion imaging of skin irritancy induced by different nicotine patches

Local skin reactions are the most common reason for discontinuation of transdermal nicotine replacement therapy in smoking cessation programs. The aims of the present study were (1) to quantify the intensity of skin reactions induced by different types of nicotine patches and (2) to compare the clinical evaluation of skin erythema using visual scores with independently performed quantitative estimates of skin perfusion.

Thirty-three subjects were included in the study, each receiving 2 different types of nicotine patches (Nicotinell and Nicorette) and 1 type of placebo patch (Nicorette), placed ventrally on the upper arms according to a randomized protocol. Patches were removed after 24 h (Nicotinell) and 16 h (Nicorette), respectively, according to recommended application times. Visual scoring and laser Doppler perfusion imaging were performed 45 min after removal of patches, in a randomized order.

Nicotinell patches induced the highest cumulative clinical score for skin irritancy. All 3 investigated patches gave rise to a slight but significant skin perfusion increase and individual visual scores and perfusion data correlated. Conclusion The degree of skin irritancy and underlying perfusion increase induced by 1 daily maintenance dose of transdermal nicotine via a patch is low, but differs between patch types.