Pre-Op Chantix

[beachgurl84 456]

Good morning everyone,

So I found out in July that my insurance removed the 6 month pre-op diet requirement and there is now no time frame on waiting for my surgery. However, I'm a smoker. I knew going into this I would have to quit smoking and to be honest, I was quite excited about having something so motivational to help me do that. My surgeon wants to see 90 days nicotine free with nicotine test every 30 days. Which means the patch or any other nicotine replacement therapy will only prolong my wait. So my doctor put me on Chantix a few days ago. Nothing special to report yet, I'm only on day 4. Has anyone else done this pre-op? I haven't talked to my surgeon yet but I'll be off Chantix before the surgery anyway. I have already noticed a difference in my desire to smoke. Don't get me wrong, I LIKE SMOKING. Everyone that smokes, likes smoking. I also like eating. Which is why I'm taking drastic steps to make myself healthier in both areas. My husband and I wanted to consider kids in the next few months but we've put that off for the surgery. I want kids more than I want to smoke or eat.

I'd really love to hear from others that took Chantix or even Zyban pre-op to prepare for surgery. How long were you on it and how long after did you have your surgery? I know I can read reviews and everything online but I'd really love to hear personal input from those in this unique position.

Thanks!

[BitterSweet* 835]

No advice on Chantix, but have you considered using one of those vapor cigarrettes? I realize they don't contain nicotine, but at least it's a substitution for smoking? Good luck to you!

[woo woo 872]

My sister was on it 2 weeks and has been completely quit for 4 years. She was a very long time smoker before that. She quit taking it after the 2 weeks because she felt the nicotine was out of her system and didn't crave cigarettes anymore, and it was making her feel moody.

I myself quit a year ago and it has been so wonderful to be free! Good luck and it's totally worth it.

[beachgurl84 456]

No advice on Chantix, but have you considered using one of those vapor cigarrettes? I realize they don't contain nicotine, but at least it's a substitution for smoking? Good luck to you!

I asked my doctor about using one of the zero % e-cigs and she was concerned it was too close to the real habit. That I wouldn't be satisfied with just that and end up going back to regular cigs.

[beachgurl84 456]

UPDATE: I had my last cigarette at 6 am on 8/12. I HAVE HAD NO NICOTINE SINCE

HAPPY DAY!

[BitterSweet* 835]

Yay!! Huge accomplishment, congratulations!!