I smoked 2 packs a day, Marlboro lights, for over 20 years. I can go without the nic, I just don't want to. I've cut it down a lot... I was at 24 mg. I know I can go without it because when I was in the army, basic training or bootcamp, I went 9 weeks without it... Your not allowed to smoke while training. It didn't bother me while there, but as soon as my 9 weeks was over and I got to the airport the first thing I bought was a pack of marlboros at 12/pack. I smoked 3 straight now and was high like I smoked weed. LoL. Funny but it was psychological. While in basic training I didn't have time to crave a smoke! I loved my marlboros! But I love vaping better now!