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Generic Nicoderm CQ
There are generic versions of Nicoderm CQ (nicotine patch) currently available. They come in three different strengths. Because nonprescription generic products do not have to undergo the same tests that prescription generics must go through, it is difficult to determine if generic Nicoderm CQ is as good as the brand-name medication.
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Nicoderm® CQ® (nicotine patch) is an over-the-counter (OTC) nicotine replacement therapy approved for reducing the withdrawal symptoms from smoking cessation (quitting smoking).
Nicoderm CQ is made by GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare. However, its patent has expired, and generic versions are available.
Generic Nicoderm CQ is available in the following strengths:
- Nicotine patch 21 mg per 24 hours
- Nicotine patch 14 mg per 24 hours
- Nicotine patch 7 mg per 24 hours.
Generic Nicoderm CQ is made by various companies, including:
- Aveva Drug Delivery Systems
- Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
- Novartis Consumer Health, Inc.
With prescription medications, all generic versions must undergo certain tests to compare them to brand-name medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) then looks at these tests to decide if the generics are equivalent to the brand-name medications and assigns each generic a rating. An "AB" rating, for example, means that the FDA has determined that a generic medication is equivalent to a brand-name drug.
Nonprescription products are not rated using this system. Therefore, it may be difficult to determine whether a generic nonprescription medication is equivalent to the brand-name product.
In addition, generic medications may have different inactive ingredients than the brand-name medicine. This might include fillers, dyes, or other ingredients that may cause problems for people with allergies or sensitivities.
If you have questions about using a generic nicotine patch, ask your pharmacist. He or she can recommend a good generic product. Some manufacturers are more reliable than others, and your pharmacist can help you choose among the many products available.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD