What to do when a craving arises even when on medication?

[DMN225]

What to do when a craving or a mood arises and on Chantix? 

[Jennifer-Quit]

You find something to distract yourself until the craving subsides.  Here is a link to a blog written by Aztec with 100 things to do besides smoke.  Find something on this list that you can do until you are feeling better.  Best wishes!

100 Things

[maryfreecig]

Tell yourself that you are not going to smoke no matter how unpleasant the crave. Carry on: read, watch comedy, walk, seek inspiration...look to win rather than lose.

[Giulia]

Here's one technique that has helped a few people:  Craving Buster Technique   There's a lot of good reading material in Best of EX.  Start working your way through it.  You'll learn a LOT!  And keep a sense of humor about you.  That helps too!  Chin up, chest out - you are doing this!

[Tawny]

I am currently on Chantix and 45 days quit as of today.  I still get a twinge a couple of times a day for a smoke.  I find my twinges are associated more with habitual times of day that I would have a cigarette or when I am "bored".

A couple of things I have done that have worked for me is I get up and do something (anything else)...walk the dog...walk to the mailbox...walk to the kitchen and grab a bottle of water and drink, drink, drink.  I also try to breathe through the craving...paying attention and counting my breaths.  I remind myself of my reasons for quitting, the positives of being a non-smoker and the fact that if I pick up that cigarette, the monkey will be right on my back again.

One thing I've really noticed is that I have A LOT of extra time that I didn't used to have so I've had to find positive things to do with that time...even just learning to be still and relax without a cigarette has been a learning experience.

I was actually having one of my "twinges" when I logged on to becomeanex.org just now and responding to your post got me through it.  Thanks and keep on keeping on!

[JACKIE1-25-15]

I would busy my hands, wash dishes, clean a closet, clean a drawer.  Deep breathing can go everywhere you go.  Ice cold water always seemed to wash the craving away. 

[Sootie]

Both Giulia‌ and Jennifer-Quit‌ gave you our "lists" of things we've come up with here at EX to "work through " the craves.  Don't believe that Chantix (or ANYTHING) is going to be a miracle drug to get rid of all cravings.......nothing does that. It is work to quit smoking and you have to put in the time and effort to get to your goal.

Stay Strong