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NRT (NicoDerm CQ)

University of California, San Francisco · FDA-approved active Small molecule ✓ Verified May 2026

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) is a Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) Small molecule drug developed by University of California, San Francisco. It is currently FDA-approved for Smoking cessation as an aid to quit smoking. Also known as: nicotine patch.

NicoDerm CQ delivers nicotine transdermally to replace nicotine from cigarettes and reduce withdrawal symptoms during smoking cessation.

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) is a small molecule used to treat conditions such as smoking cessation, nicotine dependence, and coronary heart disease. It is typically used as a second-line intervention for adult smokers who do not quit with NRT, and is available in various forms including patches, gum, and lozenges.

At a glance

Generic nameNRT (NicoDerm CQ)
Also known asnicotine patch
SponsorUniversity of California, San Francisco
Drug classNicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
TargetNicotinic acetylcholine receptors
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaSmoking Cessation / Addiction Medicine
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Nicotine is absorbed through the skin via a transdermal patch, providing steady-state nicotine levels that satisfy the body's dependence on the drug without the harmful combustion byproducts of smoking. This reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating, allowing smokers to gradually reduce their nicotine dependence over time.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about NRT (NicoDerm CQ)

What is NRT (NicoDerm CQ)?

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) is a Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) drug developed by University of California, San Francisco, indicated for Smoking cessation as an aid to quit smoking.

How does NRT (NicoDerm CQ) work?

NicoDerm CQ delivers nicotine transdermally to replace nicotine from cigarettes and reduce withdrawal symptoms during smoking cessation.

What is NRT (NicoDerm CQ) used for?

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) is indicated for Smoking cessation as an aid to quit smoking.

Who makes NRT (NicoDerm CQ)?

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) is developed and marketed by University of California, San Francisco (see full University of California, San Francisco pipeline at /company/university-of-california-san-francisco).

Is NRT (NicoDerm CQ) also known as anything else?

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) is also known as nicotine patch.

What drug class is NRT (NicoDerm CQ) in?

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) belongs to the Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) class. See all Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) drugs at /class/nicotine-replacement-therapy-nrt.

What development phase is NRT (NicoDerm CQ) in?

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of NRT (NicoDerm CQ)?

Common side effects of NRT (NicoDerm CQ) include Skin irritation at patch application site, Headache, Nausea, Dizziness, Sleep disturbances, Vivid dreams.

What does NRT (NicoDerm CQ) target?

NRT (NicoDerm CQ) targets Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and is a Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing