Well, I finally decided to try the Nicoderm CQ patch to try and stop smoking. I had already tried the gum and the ear staple and even hypnosis to no avail.
So I smoked what I thought would be my last cigarette on my way to the store to purchase’MY SAVIOR’ the patch. I paid my money, (approx.$40.00 US) walked out of the store and headed home.
When I got home I read the package insert that boldly stated.’DO NOT SMOKE WHILE WEARING THE PATCH’ Duh, with the patch on, you weren’t suppossed to want to smoke were you? Hmmm?
It said you were suppossed to place the patch on a clean, dry area above the waist each morning.(I chose the upper arm, as many do). So far so good.
It is suppossed to release small amounts of nicotine throughout the day to ease your cravings for a cigarette.
It states that smoking while using the patch can and in some cases has caused heart attacks, due to an overdose of nicotine. The Patch was originally for use only with a Doctors perscription, because it is considered a drug. You are also not to use the patch if you have any type of heart condition(including an irregular heartbeat). Some other side effects may be nausea, drymouth or headaches. Remember, always consult with your Doctor before using any over the counter medication.
So now, back to me. The next morning, I awakened and placed the patch on my left upper arm, showered, dressed and was off for the day. (This was at 9 A.M.) 9:30 A.M., I really wanted a cigarette, but I thought, maybe it just hasn’t taken full effect yet. So I fought it and didn’t smoke. 11:00 A.M., I REALLY want a cigarette now. Hmm? I thought this patch was suppossed to release small amounts of nicotine throughout the day to stave off urges to smoke. I still fought the urge. 2 P.M., this is ridiculous, I’m craving a smoke! But, I promised myself I’d really try this time.
Okay, I made it through day 1!
Ah, day 2. I wake up, put on a fresh patch, shower.oh wait, my patch falls off. This isn’t suppossed to happen. It says you can shower, exercise and do all your daily activities with it on. So I pressed it back on and hoped it would stay.
Throughout day 2, I craved cigarettes constantly. .And through day 3, and 4!
Day 5 and my mood is terrible, I’m cranky, I need a cigarette. These patches aren’t working! But I try to get through the day. My friends and family try to stay away from me! I’m cranky and rude! I WANT A CIGARETTE!
Day 6, same morning routine.except this time, NO patch! I smoke my morning cigarette, and I’m off. Calmer, relaxed not cranky, nasty to no one.
I call my Doctor and explain my situation. He called a prescription for a mild relaxant into the pharmacy for me, it is called Wellbutrin and is used primarily for depression. It is a low dosage, only 5mg. He said it should help me with withdrawal pangs and keep me relaxed. It’s now been 3 weeks and I haven’t smoked. So in my opinion.PITCH THE PATCH! See your Dr.!