Nicotine Patches: HSA Eligibility
Nicotine Patches: eligible with a Health Savings Account (HSA)HSA Eligible Smoking Cessation Products
What are nicotine patches?
Nicotine patches are a smoking cessation product. The nicotine patch is a transdermal patch that releases nicotine into the body through the skin. Smoking cessation plans often include nicotine replacement therapy, and nicotine patches are one method of employing a nicotine replacement therapy. The purpose of a nicotine replacement therapy plan is to ease an individual away from a smoking habit by mitigating the effects of nicotine withdrawal, and lowering the adverse effects of nicotine dependency on the individual's overall ability to proceed with a smoking cessation plan. Nicotine withdrawal is generally unpleasant, as the chemical is addictive, and individuals suffering from nicotine withdrawal are likelier to fail at their smoking cessation plan. Mitigating the effects of nicotine withdrawal while proceeding with a smoking cessation plan has been shown in certain studies to assist an individual with achieving their overall smoking cessation goals (Quit Victoria).
Nicotine patches can be prescribed as part of a smoking cessation program. The smoking cessation program may include other nicotine supplements such as gum, pills, etc.
Nicotine patches are sold in a variety of Over-the-Counter (OTC) packages by several different brands. A medical professional will prescribe a specific strength and usage amount based on the individual's previous smoking habit. Nicotine patches provides nicotine to the user's bloodstream, and therefore the same health concerns will arise from the use of nicotine gum as with cigarettes, excepting the risks and damages resulting from inhaling burned plant matter.