The influence of 8 and 16 mg nicotine patches on sleep in healthy non-smokers.

AIM AND METHODS

The purpose of this study was to determine whether sleep changes are a consequence of nicotine presence or withdrawal during the night, we examined 66 healthy non-smokers (33 males, 33 females, age: 20-25 years) after an adaptation night in a sleep laboratory setting. Subjects were randomized to receive placebo or either 8 or 16 mg nicotine patches during the day or during the night in a double blind, parallel group design.

RESULTS

The 16 mg nicotine patch applied during the night caused a reduced sleep period time and sleep efficiency as well as an increased wake time. A reduced REM-sleep latency and subjective sleep quality rating were found in subjects receiving nicotine during the night. Arousals, apneas and periodic leg movements were not affected by nicotine.

DISCUSSION

This study documents insomnia-like sleep changes in healthy non-smokers caused by nicotine in a dose-dependent manner. There was no evidence for sleep-related withdrawal symptoms after 13 h of nicotine application.