The most widely used method of quitting is also the most misunderstood. Going it alone, or going "cold turkey," means relying solely on your willpower to quit. Willpower is essential — you have to really want it. However, nicotine is so addictive that people often underestimate how difficult it is to resist cravings.

Willpower alone vs. chemical dependency is an unfair fight!

Nicotine activates areas of your brain that produce feelings of pleasure and reward by raising dopamine levels. Dopamine, also called the pleasure molecule, is the same substance involved in addiction like cocaine and heroin. Once your brain becomes dependent on nicotine, it links the release of dopamine with your smoking habits and behavior.

Going cold turkey means relying 100% on willpower to beat both your nicotine addiction and your smoking habit.

What's more, nicotine cravings don't end after you've smoked your last cigarette. They get worse! Weeks — even months-after your last puff, the cravings remain. That's why most cold turkey quitters fail. They have plenty of willpower but aren't prepared for the strong withdrawal cravings. Therapeutic Nicotine, which delivers controlled amounts of nicotine at a slower, less intense pace than cigarettes, can help you deal with cravings. Learn more

There are many quitting methods available. Your best chance of success is finding the method that works for you. If you're ready to stop, customize your quit plan now.