found that the most common side effects experienced when using a nicotine patch include: cough, headache, nausea, light-headedness, insomnia, disturbing dreams, sweating, watery eyes, shortness of breath, and skin irritation at the application site. The same study found that the following side effects were reported by patch wearers less frequently: diarrhea, dizziness, coldness in limbs, vomiting, and fast or pounding heart beat. Availability Nicotine patches are available for purchase over-the-counter from various manufacturers, without a prescription. See also Smoking cessation Nicotine replacement therapy Nicotine lozenge Nicotine gum Transdermal patch References American inventions Smoking cessation Transdermal patches