It's a 3-Step program like Nicoderm CQ and has helped hundreds of thousands of people quit smoking. Both are 3-Step programs, starting with Step 1 patches at 21 mg of nicotine, then Step 2 patches at 14 mg and finishing with Step 3 patches at 7 mg. The two programs are essentially equivalent. For Heavy Smokers, Nicoderm CQ suggests six weeks on Step 1 and Habitrol suggests four weeks. Our customers have been satisfied with either of the two suggestions. The main difference is price, with Habitrol being lower. The Habitrol patch contains nicotine, the addictive agent in tobacco products. When you wear a patch, it gradually releases nicotine into your bloodstream through the skin. By replacing some of the nicotine to which your body has become accustomed from smoking, the patch helps reduce your nicotine withdrawal symptoms. By following the 3-Step program you gradually wean your body of its nicotine cravings over an eight-week period until you are nicotine free.