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Quit smoking 18 days ago after 30 years. I am using the patch. As I smoked lights I stepped down to step 2 after 7 days, but now I am having a horrible time and am afraid I am going to smoke. Should I move back up to Step 1 for a little while?
I don't think smoking lights really matters too much. I was a pack a day smoker plus for 40 years. I used 21 mg patch for 3 wks, 14 mg for 2 wks, and 7 mg for 1 wk. If you are really struggling, it would not hurt to go back up in strength. Just remember, the patch does not do it all - it is just an aid that takes the edge off. Read and educate yourself about this addiction. Reach out for advise and support at this site. Do whatever is necessary to not smoke. These are just a few of the thing that will help you become a successful ex-smoker! Congrats on 18 days!
I use the patch and stepped down after the 1st week, the craving were worse, however, vick's under my nose helped me get through. I stayed on the lower dosage, this too shall pass
It is your quit. Whatever it takes except smoking. You are doing great.
YES, if you feel horrible there is absolutely no reason not to move back up to the 21MG patch... Anything is better than smoking! I use the patch and I stayed on the 21mg patch for weeks.. One week was not even close to where I needed to be. When I did move down to the 14mg patch, I had to move back up myself. It's your quit, the patch can't hurt you like smoking does so I wouldn't worry about it at all.. IMHO.
I am using the patch too. Last year when I tried to quit I didn't follow the instructions and didn't use other resources. The 21mg is for 6 weeks, 14mg is for 2 weeks, and 7mg is for 2 weeks. I am sticking by the book with this one in order not to jeopardize my quit. I know it takes more than the patch. Take care. You can do this Tfiga one day at a time.
-Michelle
Yes! it takes way more than the patch.. agreed My doctor told me I can stay on the patch for as long as I need (even 6 months) so I don't worry about it. For me relearning how to live life, through the ups and down's without the cigarette is my 1st priority and that is hard enough. I thank god for this patch.. When the time is right, I will stop using it.. until then, I'm more worried about where to put the stupid thing on my body than anything LOL
I can totally relate Debbie. I'm running out of spots. I actually have to mark on paper where I put the patch the day before, so I don't put it on the same piece of skin. At least I can say I'm not thinking about when I am going to have my next cigarette. I'll take this over that.
LOL!!! I think I might have to do that myself MichelleDiane Mark a paper of where I put my patch, because man I'm forgetting too.. OMG, I am laughing out loud, literally!!! And I agree 100% ..it's better than thinking about the next cigarette! I was actually just reading your blog from yesterday Michelle, are you feeling better today??! We have a lot in common with our quits.. I can relate to many things, even the disrupted sleep patterns... every day is a adventure that's for sure!!
So nice to know I am not alone Debbie . I'm doing better today thanks. I blogged a little while ago. One other thing that I find is that the adhesive is hard to get off, so my arms look like a checker board (have mercy).
You are NOT alone by any means Michelle and I am so glad you are doing better today. The one thing I am learning is to enjoy every second of the "good" days because those bad days are just around the corner. It will get better, I know.. but until then we have to keep chugging along. OMG, I can so relate to the adhesive tooo.... Use Alcohol .. that is the only thing I've found that works!! I'm going to go read your new blog. Hang in there!!
Oh and Michelle.. the other night when I changed into my PJ's... I noticed I had 2 patches on!!! I must have missed it when I took a shower that morning LOL..My husband and son got a kick out of it.. so funny!
Thank you everyone. Last night I moved back up to the 21mg and I feel much more in control. I was worried it was a sign of failure, but due to everyone's reassurances I am treating as just part of the quitting process.
Just an FYI...Google Nicotine amount in Marlboro lights. I think you will be surprised. I agree with Barbara145, this is your quit, do what works best for you...
Thank you
I know when I used the patch, each step-down was a little rough for the first week until I got used to the lower level of nicotine. I'd suggest using them as the directions say. don't rush this. Take it slowly and day by day
Glad you asked this question Tfiga. I am wearing my 2nd 21mg patch & had planned to step down after 7 days..... I just changed my mind! Thanks for everyone's info on this, you all saved me from myself lol. This is going to be the most successful journey I've ever taken & I'm going to take my time along the way. Perhaps being completely off all nicotine as soon as possible isn't as important right now as learning many coping strategies & forming new habits/routines
We got this friends!!!
Agreed. I am following instructions going forward.
Just moved down to step three (7 mg) and I have not smoked. I spent a month at step 1 and the additional time helped me keep my quit.
Good to know. Glad it worked for you.
Sounds logical to me if you lowered the dosage too soon. I have never used the patch, If you would just wait a few minutes, I am sure someone will give you a more experienced answer. If you think you are going to smoke better safe than sorry. Make sure you are following the instructions