As per the discussion on nicotine patches, I don't know what I can add that is
not in my book.   Basically,  although highly variable, the blood level of
nicotine in most smokers (1 pack per day) approaches 44 ng/ml, whereas levels
in patch users average 17 ng/ml, depending on dose in patch.   As you can see,
smokers plasma nicotine levels are almost 3 times higher.

Therefore, nicotine levels in milk can be expected to be less in patch users
than those found  in smokers, assuming the patch is used correctly and the
mother abstains from smoking.   Individuals who both smoke and use the patch
would have extremely high blood nicotine levels and could endanger the nursing
infant.

Nicotine, particularly in overdose, is extremely toxic and could easily lead to
shock, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart beat, and restlessness.  So be careful
and warn the mom how important it is to not smoke while using the patch.

Nicotine Gum:
   Mean plasma nicotine levels achieved while chewing 2-mg and 4-mg nicotine
polacrilex gum were 11.8 ng/mL and 23.2 ng/mL, respectively. The plasma
nicotine level was quite variable between individuals,  but showed little
variation for each person chewing the gum during the day (hourly chewing).



Regards

Tom Hale, Ph.D.