Friday, June 01, 2012

Sunday, November 30, 2008 jay livingston asks

Q: can nicotine patch help me quit smoking?

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Answers (6)
Neil MD, Health Pro
12/ 6/08 7:38pm

Hello jay livingston,

 

Yes, nicotine patches do help reduce cravings for cigarettes.

 

But they are not the most effective way to stop quitting for most people.  The combination of therapy/behavioral modification and medications like Chantix are proven to be more effective.   However, the drawback to these is that they are expensive, and counter-intuitively, not always covered by insurance.

 

So, yes the patch can help, is less expensive then medication, and widely available; it does not however, work as well as other treatment options.  

 

Be sure to discuss your desire to quit with your physician, as they may be able to link you to services in your are to help your quit.

 

GOOD LUCK WITH QUITTING! I hope you succeed!

 

To your health,

Neil MD

 

 

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12/11/08 5:52pm

They might help you, but try using your lungs consciously imitating the smoking ritual. Do it while you are smoking and keep it up for about two weeks. During this time you will experience the craving becoming gradually weaker and then it ceases completely. Then you won't need anymore cigarettes. This method helped me quit smoking and I've never wanted one since, so give it a try and good luck.

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12/17/08 3:29pm

why not try a e-cigarette they are a healthier alternative to smoking so a smoker still get there fix but a healthier fix. Please visit www.myinlife.com/h.wiley

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2/16/09 10:14am

SealedYEP. You Bet.  I am using the 21mg patch by habitrol.  Got it from the VA medical center. I tried the patch 10yrs ago and did not do well. I itched and was anxious after the nurse put it on me. I ended up taking it off and continued smoking.

This time, I got out of bed sat and thought about putting on the patch, read the booklet, got in the shower and popped the patch on my right shoulder( had my daughter put it on this time) It is far enough down I can't just peel it off, and It is in a spot that clothing wont rub it. Oh, I did this over a long weekend at home. Try it. Everyone is different. I have heard that it is easier for men to quit than women. Good luck.

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9/17/09 9:49pm

absolutely!  Remember one thing attitude is everything!Laughing

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9/ 2/10 10:50am

Yes. I was a smoker for 34years and when i was diagnosed with emphysema 10years ago, I got patches and after the first week I never looked back and when I had a craving for a cigarette I had a drink of water and strange as it may seem the craving stopped. Good Luck to you.

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By jay livingston— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 11/30/08