Nicotine patches?

i have been on nicotine patches for 3 days now but i still want a cigarette first thing in the morning and last thing at night, despite wearing the patch for 24hrs, is this phase normal and how long will it last. my gp has adviced me to quit smoking so i really need to give it a good go for the sake of my health. i am finding it so difficult i lead a streesful life, looking after a child with complexed disabilites and a son who has severe ecezma and asthma as well as a teenage son. my husband is supportive but he still smokes in the bathroom upstairs. i am going to join a group for new quitters but if anyone else has had the patches how long before the cravings go away. thanking you in advance.

Firstly... Well done you! Quiting smoking is one of the hardest things you can do. The addiction is such a strong one. I had the same problem, first thing in the morning is a difficult time. I found the nicorette gum useful for this. I'm not going to lie its tastes horrible, but it does give you an instant nicotine fix. If you are from the UK, poundland actually seel the gum, and its a pound lol! I used to have about 6/7 pieces of gum a day and cut down gradually. I also found the gum useful when I was drinking on a night out. Joining a group sounds like a good idea. You can then all help each other with the process and swap tips. It will keep you on the straight and narrow. The cravings dont go away as such, but it does get easier and I found after a little while, I was disgusted by the smell of smoke. Anyway, I wish you all the luck in the world... You can do it, stay strong!!

You are over the worst. The most difficult times are, as you say, in the morning and after meals, so, if you can, leave the table quickly and go outside or for a quick walk. Keep it up, you are doing the right thing.

yes ive used the 24 hour ones and still found mornings very hard-the nurse said this was more likely to be habit than a real craving-dont give up giving up x

Really the craving should have gone buy now especaily as you are usning the 24hrs patch. if you are on the 21mg you may benifit from a more sutable product that will work faster in the morning nasal spray is the fastest and good if you need a quick hit that will last a while. use like you would a cigerett as and when needed. or a lozenge or microtab. if you are only on the 14 mg step 2 patch get a stronger one.

also visit www.bootschangeonething.com for lots of helpfull advice.

Everyone should of course give up smoking, or better still, never take it up!

I almost always prescribed a quick booster form of NRT as well as the patch. Usually the insufflator, but sometimes gum or micro-tabs. That way if you do get a craving, despite the patch, you have something to reach for other than a cigarette.

Ask your GP and he will probably give you these as well.

My wife's down to 40 a day . Patches that is!