Smoking Addiction & Recovery Support Group

The CDC claims that nicotine is a "very addictive drug" that can be "as addictive as heroin or cocaine." Nicotine is typically eliminated from the body within 2 to 3 days, however, physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms may last for much longer depending on the individual. If you are trying to kick the habit, this community is dedicated to giving smokers the...

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Have a question about the patch

Jen1971
Jen1971
Okay here is my question. I am on day 30 quitting using the patch. Question is, once I take the patch off and stop using it, will I go thru the same withdrawal symptoms as someone who quit cold turkey. I know my mind set has really adapted to the idea of not smoking but my body is still getting the nicotine. I am really afraid once I take the patch i will become edgy and bitter. I have about 2 weeks left (starting the step 3 stage). I will be about a month and a half in once I am done with them.

Just don't want to loose this quit. I really feel like I have it this time just scared not to have the drug anymore, make sense?

Any advice is welcome please!
forerica
forerica
I understand your fear. I went thru the same thing last time using the patch. So I use some occaisional nic. gum- I know I shouldn't but it beats smoking. Can you cut the patch in smaller pieces to wean off more slowly if you need to? You can do it!!!!! Keep strong.
deleted_user
deleted_user
i can understand your fears...but remember that you have been training yourself not to pick up a cigarette for 30 DAYS!!! CONGRATS BIG TIME BY THE WAY!!! the physical withdrawal will only last 3 days, and you have already been working on the psychological part of quitting..you are just going to have to teach your brain that you will no longer be providing it with nicotine. (you have already taught yourself not to pic up a cigarette.) i am sure you will go through a rough patch when you are done with the patch...but you will be able to handle it just fine...you have done such a great job so far...i am so proud of you for going 30 days!!!!!!
Tikka
Tikka
You've been giving yourself less and less nictotine with the steps so it won't be as hard. IT might not be "easy" but you can do it - it's only three days or so and the rest is in your head. It can be REALLY LOUD in there (in your head) but really, that's all it is. WE'll be here and YOU can do it. Scared or not, you can do it! oxox TIkka
deleted_user
deleted_user
Congrats on your 30 day victory! The patch really only helps you deal with the psychological aspect of your addiction. That "automatic reach for a cig" is challenged without the physical aspect of cold turkey. the patch helped me take things one step at a time. The downside is that I have experienced is the extended pysical issues. My favorite part of using the patch was the cool dreams that I experienced when I wore it overnight. keep up the good work.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Hey Jen...I quit with the same method using the patch. And like you I was a little leary about taking it off.

When I finally finished the patch program...I was irritated for about 3 days or so. But not to the point I wanted to smoke. That is just not an option!

But you are right...your body will have to adjust with NO NICOTINE in it. Dont let that scare you...its a good thing to rid yourself of it all together.

You will do just fine!
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