Nicotine Replacement with Stints

[lynnlaur]

I had to have 3 stints (90% blockage) in December 2009.  I quit smoking immediately.  Is it okay to use nicotine lozenges to help stay off of cigarettes when you have stints?

[Trackermom]

Those urges will pass.  Trust me you are past the hard part which is really the first 72 hours as the nicotine leaves the body.  
Tell yourself you are doing well and that it will only help you, Think of the money your are saving also.  
Those cigarettes did NOTHING but hurt to you remember that.

Continued success Lynn :)

[Trackermom]

Lynn, You are already off the nicotine don't introduce again. At this point it is not a chemical addiction it is psychological.  Use other forms of oral gratification. Sugar-free gum and hard candies, etc.

[lynnlaur]

You are absolutely correct.  Nicotine is nicotine.  I am so addicted to it that I tell my self that the lozenges are better than cigarettes.  It's going to be hard, but I am starting today without lozenges.  Thank you for the advice.

[lynnlaur]

Thank you so much for the advice.  Now it is time to get out and start walking.

[Flycaster305]

Ten years ago I had my first stent and I quit smoking as well.  I found the motivation easier when I recalled laying on that cold table and seeing a wire in my heart.  I used an occasional piece of nicotine gum for about a week, but I soon figured out as long as I was using the gum I still was addicted and finally just stopped the gum.  If you quit smoking in December 2009, you should only have the occasional urge to smoke, and I would urge you to simply sit on your hands for that urge period until it passes.  If possible, I'd urge you to do aerobic exercise daily as well.  Congratulations for getting rid of those pimp sticks!

[kenkeith]

Stents are no cure for occluded vessels.  You remain as vulnerable for coronary vessel disease as before the stent implants, and nicotine from any source is harmful to the vascular system.