I believe that anyone can quit cold turkey but don't think it's necessarily the best way for everyone. My first quit was cold turkey and it was a horrible experience, so bad that I think the memory of it prevented me from using the method a second time. I tried but after giving up on day 3 numerous times, I gave up...what's the definition of insanity? I decided to try nicotine patches and it's so much easier...no comparison really. No mood swings, no anger, no crying at the drop of a hat, no foggy brain, no sleep problems, able to be productive. In order to minimize withdrawal, I stepped down very gradually...21 mg, 17.5 mg, 14 mg, 10.5 mg, 7 mg, 3.5 mg, then nothing.
I do sense some negativity toward NRT on this site. Not from everyone but there seem to be those with a "my way or the highway" attitude. When someone does reveal that they are quitting with the patch, some advise them to get off the patch as soon as possible. Personally, I think this is bad advice. If a quitter wants to use the patch for less than the 8-week recommended time period, it should be their idea. They should not be pressured and/or made to feel that they are doing something wrong.
Anyway, I do recommend the patch for those who like the idea of weaning themselves from nicotine.