Nicotine vaping products (NVPs) are increasingly considered as an option for patients seeking treatment for smoking cessation, especially for those who find it challenging to quit using traditional methods. While nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as patches, gum and mouth sprays are still widely used, NVPs may provide another viable tool for harm reduction.
Evidence of effectiveness in quitting smoking
Emerging evidence suggests that NVPs may support smoking cessation, especially for those who struggle with other quitting aids. Research indicates that switching to NVPs may help patients reduce or quit smoking.¹
This switch may ease dependency on traditional cigarettes by gradually reducing exposure to the addictive elements. As a result, patients may find it easier to manage cravings and withdrawal, increasing their chances of successfully quitting smoking.¹
However, further research is ongoing to clarify their long-term efficacy, particularly in the context of reducing harm to health.
Patient considerations and harm reduction
For some patients, NVPs may closely mimic the sensation of smoking, particularly the behavioural aspect, which may ease the transition and enhance adherence to a smoking cessation program.²
Patients switching to NVPs as part of a smoking cessation treatment plan may generally be exposed to fewer harmful chemicals, offering a possible risk reduction.³ However, it’s crucial for patients to understand that smoking cessation products are not risk-free and should ideally be part of a structured program to quit smoking.
Regulatory considerations
In Australia, dispensing NVPs with a concentrate <20 mg/ml for patients 18 years or older does not require a prescription, if deemed appropriate by a pharmacist. For NVPs with a concentrate >20 mg/ml or for patients under 18 years, a prescription is still required.
As more patients explore this option, understanding the legal and safety requirements surrounding these smoking cessation products will help pharmacies provide accurate information and guidance on their safe use.
For more information about the regulatory requirements, click here.
Sources
(1) Health Canada, 2019. What We Heard: Reducing Youth Access and Appeal of Vaping Products: Consultation Summary. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/healthy-living/consultation-summary-reducing-youth-access-appeal-vaping-products.html
(2) Health Canada. “Vaping and Quitting Smoking.” Government of Canada. Accessed November 1, 2024. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/smoking-tobacco/vaping/quit-smoking.html
(3) National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Board on Population Health and Public Health Practice, Committee on the Review of the Health Effects of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems, Eaton, D. L., Kwan, L. Y., & Stratton, K. (Eds.)., 2018. Public Health Consequences of E-Cigarettes. National Academies Press (US).