I will emphatically endorse Olivia's suggestion regarding Scopace as an alternative to the patch. It has a much shorter half life than the patches. Therefore, one can take it shortly before the stormy weather begins and then stop when the nasty weather abates. Further, unlike the patches, one can take Scopace in doses related to body weight. In our humble opinion (based on actual use), Scopace is far superior to the patch because one can take it just before the nasty stuff begins and then not have to deal with the dreary effects for days after, as with the patch. The only side effect we have found is dry mouth (as with the patch). That is easily dealt with by taking liberal doses of single malt scotch or cherry flavored lozenges. (Hmm, can you guess which I chose??) Cheers, Fred