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Modern E-Cigarettes May Have Higher Abuse Liability Than Nicotine Gum

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A study published online in the journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research suggests that modern pod-style electronic cigarette (ECIG) devices may have a higher abuse liability than nicotine gum in individuals with no history of cigarette smoking. Andrea R. Milstred, from West Virginia University, and colleagues conducted an analysis of 16 young adult users of pod-style ECIGs with no history of cigarette smoking, comparing their subjective and behavioral effects to those of nicotine gum. The study's findings indicate that ECIGs have a higher abuse liability than nicotine gum, raising concerns about the potential for nicotine addiction among vulnerable populations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Modern pod-style electronic cigarette (ECIG) devices may have a higher abuse liability than nicotine gum in individuals with no history of cigarette smoking.
  • The study included 16 young adult users of pod-style ECIGs with no history of cigarette smoking, who were compared to users of nicotine gum and placebo gum.
  • The analysis found significant decreases in intention to vape from before to after use of ECIGs, but not after use of nicotine gum or placebo gum.
  • Ratings of relief and satisfaction were significantly higher for ECIGs than for either gum dose at both bouts.
  • The study's authors conclude that modern ECIG devices are more reinforcing than nicotine gum and therefore have a higher abuse liability for this vulnerable population.
  • The study highlights the need to continue monitoring the use and effects of modern ECIG products, given their rapid evolution to date.
  • Andrea R. Milstred, a researcher from West Virginia University, was the lead author of the study.

Statistics:

  • 16 young adult users of pod-style ECIGs participated in the study.
  • The study found significant decreases in intention to vape from 76.5% before use of ECIGs to 23.8% after use.
  • Ratings of relief were significantly higher for ECIGs (42.3) compared to 4-mg nicotine gum (20.4) and placebo gum (15.5) at both bouts.
  • The crossover point was higher for ECIGs (24.5 mg) than for gum (19.5 mg), but the difference was not significant.

Sources:

  • Nicotine & Tobacco Research, Andrea R. Milstred, et al., "Comparative Analysis of Pod-Style Electronic Cigarette Effects and Nicotine Gum Effects in Nicotine Users with No History of Cigarette Smoking" (May 20)

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