Cold Turkey or NRT

lillian, quit coach

220 posts
Registered:
28 Nov 2017

29 Nov 2017

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Withdrawal symptoms can be so intense! Lack of concentration, irritability, fatigue, depression, constipation, the list is long. Potentially some can experience all of the symptoms while some lucky folks, don't experience any withdrawal at all.

If you've decided to quit smoking, you are probably wondering if you should use a product or not? The next question is if yes, then what should I use?

Patch, gum, lozenges,inhalers, spray/mist, champix, and zyban.... Those products are available to help with withdrawal and cravings.They help to soften both. This makes for a more manageable quit process. Cold turkey, is often a preferred method. It feels good to just say 'no more'. It can be overwhelmingly intense for some but even still eventually that intense withdrawal and craving will pass in time. Your body will get through it with either method as you continue on with your quit. The key is in actually continuing on with your quit. What will help you achieve that?

In the past, members have shared their experiences with side effects and successes.. Please share your hits and misses in your choice of quit method! Remember we are all unique but each perspective can help us gain insight into what might work for us.

Hopefully our members can share, but in the meantime, for those just starting out-- talk and talk some more! Talk to your friends, your doctor and talk especially, to a pharmacist, a helpline, gather all of the information you can!

We are here, keep us posted,
Lillian

Last modified on 31 Dec 2020 09:23 by Quit Coach 7

buttingout2014

52 posts
Registered:
29 Nov 2017

29 Nov 2017 in reply to lillian, quit coach

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My personal experience resulted from trying a combination of 3 different quit 'aids':
* Lozenges
* Gum
* Patches

First, I tried the lozenges, but no matter what strength I tried, I found that they burned my tongue and my throat something awful, so they had to go.
(I'd purchased a large supply of them, and found someone else on the SHO website that wanted to try them - so I gave them away)

Secondly, I tried the gum - but it tasted awful. I tried different flavours, with no resulting "winner" among the available options. I just couldn't get over the taste, so I gave those away too.

Finally, I tried out the patch - starting with 2 boxes of the strongest ones, with the plan of continuing to the next lower strength patch once I was finished with the first two boxes.
I barely finished the 1st box of patches, and decided that enough was enough: it was time to quit.
I'd already been smoke-free for weeks, and I opted to fight the Nicotine cravings on my own.
(This wasn't the smartest thing to do, as the cravings became incredible...but with help from the SHO website / forum, I was able to succeed smoke-free!!)

I'm so glad that I didn't opt for e-cigs like my wife tried when she was trying to quit smoking...
She smoked the eCig with Nicotine liquid for a month, and went back to smoking - only to increase her dependence on cigarettes rather than drop it.
Now, she smokes almost twice as much - so I wouldn't recommend eCig to anyone looking to quit.

Your QUIT buddy, Jim.

My Milage:

My Quit Date: 1/27/2014
Smoke-Free Days: 1402
Cigarettes Not Smoked: 35,050
Amount Saved: $15,422.00
Life Gained:
Days: 218 Hrs: 8 Mins: 54 Seconds: 38

treepeo

832 posts
Registered:
29 Nov 2017

29 Nov 2017

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I quit cold turkey simply because I didn't think any of the NRTs would really help me. And I pushed myself really hard. I kept my cigarettes in plain sight. I drank coffee and alcohol, and hung out with smokers right off the bat. Why? Because I thought, if I'm going to slip, I would rather do it sooner in my journey rather than later. And I also wanted to keep telling myself through these challenges, "I choose not to smoke." Now I will admit, the first month was truly hellish. However, I made it through, and ultimately I am glad I went cold turkey. I had to confront my addiction head on, which is something I steadfastly refused to do my whole life. I had no choice but to face the fact that I couldn't have something as small as a peanut without craving a cigarette right after. In fact, I couldn't do much of anything unless I knew I could have a smoke right afterwards. I broke free of smoking and I didn't have to rely on NRTs either, so I was totally free. And that was a great feeling.

Having said that, a lot of people swear by their NRTs and I think that is great. Whatever is going to help someone quit is worth having. Anything is better than smoking.

lithan44

51 posts
Registered:
30 Nov 2017

30 Nov 2017

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I also quit cold turkey! And I read Allen Carr's The Easy Way to Stop Smoking. Man, that book helped me so much. To the point I actually quit prior to my quit date!

onyx

17 posts
Registered:
29 Nov 2017

04 Dec 2017

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I'm a Champix Pixie. It was the only thing that kept me off the cigarettes for more than 2 months... And I'm still going strong at 3 years and almost five months into my quit.

I used nicotine free vapor sticks - basically flavored water - to help me transition over the first while. I went through several during the first few weeks of my quit, then they slowly started tapering off... I haven't purchased one in almost three years. They were a huge help for me.

Both methods are not for everyone. I say go with what works best for you. If one method doesn't work, try something else, but never give up trying.

It's not just the method you choose to quit by, it's the reprogramming yourself into being a non smoker. Get rid of that hand to mouth habit by playing with a fidget spinner or something else, anything that keeps your hands and mind busy. You will not be successful if you don't combine the best way to stop smoking for you with the reprogramming... Or you won't in my experience.

And having a great support system like the gang in here is a mammoth help too!

Keep rocking, and never give up trying... One day you *will* quit and stay smoke free!

marianne, quit coach

278 posts
Registered:
30 Nov 2017

04 Dec 2017

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Great feedback Everyone in sharing your unique plans.

Buttingout2014, you gave various nicotine replacements a try and found cold turkey and peer support was for you!

Treepeo- cold turkey and self talk suited you best as well- thank you for sharing.

Lithan44- cold turkey and self-help materials to your success.

Onyx- Champix, reprogramming thinking, community support and strategies was your formula

Summarizing your methods of quitting to highlight your prime choices coupled with other skills. Truly shows to keep never give up as something will prove to be right and bring your success.

Keep the sharing going...

Marianne

clepage

251 posts
Registered:
30 Nov 2017

08 Dec 2017

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Hi, my process for stopping began with a decision to stop. I really craved cigarettes during the early period. In fact, I had to have a step 1 patch daily with lozenges.
I am doing good with these aids . I went to step 2 but encountered difficulties. I am back to step 1.
This is the level that I am comfortable.

ladybug88

3 posts
Registered:
31 Jul 2018

07 Aug 2018

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I had been doing "cold turkey" since my day 1 and had been reading my emails too but I may need quit support this week. Where do I go to get some?

ladybug88

3 posts
Registered:
31 Jul 2018

07 Aug 2018 in reply to buttingout2014

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More power to you !!! Thanks for sharing your experience. I look up to you.

jenna lee, quit coach

265 posts
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28 Jun 2018

07 Aug 2018

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Hi ladybugg88

You can certainly give us a call at 1-877-513-5333 for additional counseling support. We can also let you know about local quit smoking programs where you may be able to get nicotine replacement therapy to help you maintain your quit.

Additionally, safe nicotine replacement therapy products can be purchased at a pharmacy. If you have private healthcare insurance, it may be covered.

Hope this helps,

clepage - good for you for adjusting your dosage and listening to your body. Do what works best for your at your pace. Hope all is well.

Jenna Lee

brieffree

1478 posts
Registered:
28 Nov 2017

07 Aug 2018

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H Lilian

I quit cold Turkey, then I use Nrt Nicorete Mist Spray as need it. Now I use the Mist and the gum! I am totally smoke free, I said to my self is not work it!

Until when that is the question? For now I am ok. A bit irritable! less tolerant! But I manage that!
I focus only in the Positive, Eating healthy as I can. Fruit, drink water etc, no charge too much my stomach. I am ok!

I wish all a very good smoke free day! if I did it so can you!

It is hard to stop smoking after so many years of doing it. Thinking that was ok.
Until one day you confront yourself with your health in your hands.....and you deiced that is your time to quit or else!

Yes, i still thinking that smoking is not the solution!
And, after took medication and stop smoking complete, I started to Brief Better and Better, and recover my legs power and stop Coifing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Your savings:
Savings$57,850.00
Days Smoke-Free1157
Cigarettes Not Smoked57850

Last modified on 07 Aug 2018 18:31 by brieffree

eagerquit

415 posts
Registered:
07 Mar 2018

08 Aug 2018

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Hi Lillian,

Thanks for this interesting topic. Over the years I tried a lot of different quit aids and even cold turkey, but without success. I think no matter what the method or aid was, I just was not completely committed to quitting. I knew I should quit but was only half-hearted in my decision. The different products usually have a disclaimer on the packaging to say they should be used in combination with a smoking cessation program, and some even say they should be used in combination with will power. If the willingness to quit smoking is not fully there, then really nothing will work.

When I finally developed the committed desire to quit smoking, I used NRT lozenges and gum to quell the cravings with success. They were not a magic bullet, just an aid in achieving my decision.

Wishing everyone another smoke free day!

Eagerquit

ladybug88

3 posts
Registered:
31 Jul 2018

09 Aug 2018 in reply to jenna lee, quit coach

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Thanks a lot Jenna Lee. I do a lot of sleeping, watching movies from android box then eat a lot of sweets. I do eat a lot of veggies and salads. Today is Day 9 for me and I'm not doing too bad. I haven't had a stick since August 1st (patting myself on the back LOL). I will check my local drug stores for help but hoping against hope that I won't need any.

Still battling,
Ladybug88

lillian, quit coach

220 posts
Registered:
28 Nov 2017

10 Aug 2018 in reply to ladybug88

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Hi ladybug88,

Day 10 today! I am glad to see that it wasn't too bad yesterday, ladybug. You deserve the pats on the back. This a big change and definitely challenging so it is very important to treat yourself well and acknowledge it.

The battles are tough but you will win the war,

Congrats Ladybug 88!

shazzan

140 posts
Registered:
06 Nov 2018

16 Nov 2018 in reply to lithan44

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Hi lithan44

Congrats on your quit. I also quit cold turkey and even though i am smoke free 7 days now, i am reading Allan Carr's book to reinforce my commitment. Can't put the book down. I am hoping it is true that i will not have any further cravings, having banished the nicotine and its perverted mind altering legacy. My itches are mild (hardly perceptible as they are, but it would still be be reassuring to know they can no long exist and hold power over me.

What has been your experience regarding :the itch: after reading this book?

atp

501 posts
Registered:
31 Dec 2018

08 Jan 2019 in reply to shazzan

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I'm a week into my quit. Last smoke was on New years eve. Went cold turkey after smoking a pack a day for 30 years.

I started with lozenges (Shoppers Life Brand 2mg) and alternated with the mist (Nicorette 1mg).
The lozenges were better for me to use. I found the mist a bit harsh, but I liked the mist mostly because it fit in my pocket, I could handle it like a lighter - gave me some comfort those first few days.

By Day 3 I was using NRT only a few times - didn't like the feeling. By day 4 I was off the NRT altogether. Just felt better to get the withdrawal done and over with. Out of a vial of 24 lozenges I have 14 left. Maybe used the mist 6 times at most.

Since I've been drinking lots of water, snacking and munching my way through a big bag of Nibs.

One week in and I am feeling much better physically. Just need to get over the mental habit now.

This is the first time I got this far into a quit. Just more determined this time.

shazzan

140 posts
Registered:
06 Nov 2018

18 Jan 2019 in reply to onyx

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I totally agree onyx. Unless you reprogram your mind to be a non-smoker and break the hand to mouth habit, you will have difficulty even after quitting the nicotine addiction. That is why quit lines and learning about addiction and you is so very important to have a successful quit.

shazzan

140 posts
Registered:
06 Nov 2018

18 Jan 2019

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I quit smart turkey, and wouldn't change it for the world. Once educated and understanding about nicotine and you, then you can accept the journey to becoming a non smoker. Some people have a very hard time proceeding knowing they can never have another cigarette. Until they can conquer that fear, and accept the journey for what the goal is... to not ever smoke. , they are defeating their own quits. The mind is a powerful thing. Once you have trained it to work for you, it is easy to quit.

jenna c, quit coach

58 posts
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29 Nov 2018

26 Mar 2019

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Yes Shazzan, some people can quit cold turkey successfully and some need nicotine replacement therapy or medications to quit. In my opinion its the maintenance that is the most difficult stage of change. It's the positive self talk and reminding yourself that the cigarette is never an options nor something you need in your life. It's the other tools that you have built up in your box that are always the better choice when you ever think or try to convince yourself that you need one. ODAAT as you continue your journey of better health and reaping the benefits of quitting the longer you go.

Never give up trying!

jenna c, quit coach

atp

501 posts
Registered:
31 Dec 2018

08 Apr 2019 in reply to jenna c, quit coach

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This is one of those threads with an awful lot of reads which says something about people preparing to quit trying to find the best method to do so. And there are a lot of methods.

As per my earlier post I started my quit using NRT's and a few days in went cold turkey. 3 months later I am proud to start calling myself a non-smoker. The choice to go cold turkey was done following a craving and I used the mist and it just made my throat sore and cough. I decided that If I was going to quit I needed to do it on my own and not transfer my addiction to something else
(NRT's) or prolong the nicotine in my body.

At the end of the day, the main thing is to do what works for you. The badge of pride and the reward is being able to say you quit.

I tried to quit many times before, mostly using nicorette gums and lozenges, a few times cold turkey. All ended in my smoking again before the first week was up. The difference for me this time was educating myself about the quitting process, joining this site (huge help for me), and being ready and determined. Those things matter more than anything else. Willpower.

If I had to say anything to someone getting ready to quit is that you really need to want it. After that the choice to go cold turkey (and get the nicotine totally out) or use NRT's is rally about what helps you get through the days and weeks ahead.

kate r, quit coach

49 posts
Registered:
16 Jan 2019

21 May 2019

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atp,

Thanks so much for sharing your experience with quitting and what ultimately made you decide to go cold turkey! As you said, the high number of views on this thread suggests that people are wanting to find the best method to quit, which we know can be an overwhelming experience.

Quitting with products (NRTs or medications) or cold turkey are both valid ways to quit smoking. As a quit coach, I've heard people succeed using either method. It is very much dependent on the person, and there is no "right" way to quit. For that reason, is important to find out what works for you, and this may take some trial and error. The important thing is to not give up!

Of course, we are here to support your quits, whichever method you choose!

Sincerely,
Kate R

deelove

6 posts
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03 Aug 2019

03 Aug 2019

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I tried to quit with patches and they caused my skin to turn red and they often fell off. I tried cold turkey as well but the cravings were so bad. I also tried the vape and was on it for a year but every time I went down to 0 nicotine I would get cravings and smoke again. This time I am quitting on the gum I got the cinnamon kind and they taste good and they kick my cravings to to curb. I am 7 days smoke free right now and I feel good.

efreeman75

296 posts
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02 Apr 2018

04 Aug 2019

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Awesome work deelove. So glad to hear you found something that works for you. I didn't know they had a cinnamon flavour - that does sound good. I thought the only flavour they had was horse dung, lol!

Have a great smoke-free day.

cc177loadie

1 posts
Registered:
15 Oct 2020

28 Oct 2020

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It's hard to decide with any NRT, because it's a product that exists to make $. Whenever I read the directions on the gum, patch, lozenge, or Champix, it's 6 mo long. Anyways, over 22yrs of smoking, I tried all of em. Champix worked well, my motivation didn't. The gum is great for long flights or stretches of time when you cant smoke. Patch didn't help me at all. Vaping just put my habit on pause for 9 mo. The lozenges seemed to work really well, but after a week all I could think was how I'm breaking a habit, and not the nicotine addiction, so I got off it. I think cold turkey is the way to go.

emily, quit coach

255 posts
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28 Nov 2017

28 Oct 2020

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Hi cc177loadie,

Thank you for sharing your experiences with the different products. It certainly highlights how different quitting is for each person. For you, cold turkey is best.

Knowing what method works for you and how you would like to quit is a big first step in the smoke free journey.

Wish you all the best with it.
Emily

eagerquit

415 posts
Registered:
07 Mar 2018

15 Nov 2020 in reply to lillian, quit coach

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Hi Lillian,

I used a number of items to help with my quit - NRT lozenges and gum, regular gum, scotch mints, pretzels and veggie snacks. I found that keeping the hand to mouth action going helped with the replacement of cigarettes. I have been off cigarettes since March 2018 but stayed on an occasional low dose NRT lozenge until five days ago when I went completely nicotine free. I should have gone off the lozenges long ago but better late than never.

jenna lee, quit coach

265 posts
Registered:
28 Jun 2018

16 Nov 2020 in reply to eagerquit

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Hi Eagerquit,

Thanks for sharing! It is interesting how you brought up the hand-to-mouth motion and how the products you choose can help with other 'habits/cravings' like that. Congratulations on quitting in March of 2018!!

In regards to using the low dose NRT for a long time, you are right; better late than never and also, better those than smoking. How are you doing now almost a week nicotine-free?

Best,

Jenna Lee

eagerquit

415 posts
Registered:
07 Mar 2018

17 Nov 2020 in reply to jenna lee, quit coach

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Hi Jenna Lee,

Thank you for your encouraging words. I am now 7 days nicotine free and feeling very good about it. I think the sense of accomplishment is as important as the quit itself. I must confess I had a brief feeling of loss this morning and a wish to pop a lozenge but it passed quickly enough. I am looking forward to another nicotine free day!

dublinguy

379 posts
Registered:
09 Dec 2021

03 Mar 2022

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Very interesting thread. I think we all end up going Cold Turkey eventually... completely eliminating the nicotine from our systems. The sneaky thing about smoking is that nicotine is harmless... its all the other chemicals in smokes that are dangerous. So using the patch is really just prolonging the process of cold turkey but it can really help a person break the habit of the physical hand to mouth action of smoking. After 10 weeks of the patch, the physical habit is broken. But the cravings can still come when you go off the patch.. but by then you are used to being a non smoker... it still requires will power though.

Im finished the 10 weeks of the patch now and only using the mist spray. At times I feel it burns my throat but Im still using it and will continue to until Im a bit past the 3 month stage... Ive learned from past quits that between 2 months and 3 is the danger zone for me for relapse. And like atp said.. its willpower and wanting to stay quit that is needed more than anything.

NRT is not a cast all fool proof method to quitting. That's up to the person themselves actually really wanting to be a non smoker. Its not easy but the NRT is there to help you along on the journey.

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