Vaping: What's it all about?

Contributed by Anna Filardo, Education Program Manager

Image Credt: fda.gov (1)

Vaping has continued to increase in use and popularity. New federal regulations have recently been established and research on long-term use of vaporizers is growing. This post presents current information and potential dangers of vaping.

• Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) go by various names.

• Vaporizer, vape pens, hookah pens, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), and e-pipes.(1)

• "E-Liquids" (the fluid mixture that is vaporized) vary, and may include:

• Nicotine, marijuana, propylene glycol, and/or flavored glycerin are most common.(1)
• Formaldehyde or acetaldehyde have also been found.(2)
• Ethanol (or alcohol) is frequently used and could lead to a future alcohol dependence. (4)
• Toxic metal nanoparticles from the vaping mechanism.(3)

• ENDS vs. Cigarette Smoking.

• Teens that vape are more susceptible to take up cigarette smoking.(4)
• Informative Video from ASAPScience: Smoking vs. Vaping

• Long-term health consequences remain unclear.

• Users may suffer from "Popcorn Lung", due to the presence of diactetyl.(5)
• "The brain is the last organ in the human body to develop fully. Nicotine exposure during periods of significant brain development, such as adolescence, can disrupt the growth of brain circuits that control attention, learning, and susceptibility to addiction." -U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy (6)

• The FDA has recently gained regulatory authority over ENDS, beginning August 2016.(1)

• It will take up to 2 years for the FDA to fully evaluate all 500 brands and 7,700 e-liquid flavors.(7) 

• Vaporizers can be used to mask the smell of marijuana.

• Marijuana concentrates or "hash oil" (which can contain up to 90% THC) can be added to e-liquid.(8)
• "Pure CBD Oil" for vape pens is easily purchased via the internet. Video: CBD vs. THC

*Image of actual product submitted to Drug Free Sport AXIS™.

ENDS & Vaping Resources:

1. U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Vaporizers, E-Cigarettes, and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)
2. Oxford Academic: Nicotine & Tobacco Research
3. National Institute on Drug Abuse: Electronic Cigarettes (e-Cigarettes)
4. ScienceNews for Students: Teen data find vapors often become smokers
5. American Lung Association: Popcorn Lung; A Dangerous Risk of Flavored E-Cigarettes
6. E-Cigarette Use Among Youth and Young Adults: A Report of the Surgeon General
7. American Lung Association: E-Cigarettes and Lung Health
8. NPR: Pot Smoke And Mirrors: Vaporizer Pens Hide Marijuana Use
9. CDC: E-Cigarettes and Young People: A Public Health Concern
10. Know the Risks: E-Cigarettes and Young People
11. Tips for Talking About E-cigarettes