Throat hit in users of the electronic cigarette: an exploratory study.

Introduction:
This article presents an exploratory study on the "throat hit" sensation experienced by users of electronic cigarettes. The study, conducted by Jean-François Etter of the University of Geneva, aimed to identify the factors associated with the strength of the throat hit and its relationship with nicotine concentration, satisfaction, and smoking behavior. The results have implications for manufacturers, retailers, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and vapers.

Key Points:

* The study was based on an online survey of 1,672 current users of electronic cigarettes, with a median age of 41 years and 62% being men.
* The throat hit was assessed using five response options, and factors associated with its strength included nicotine concentration, device characteristics, modifications, and satisfaction levels.
* Participants who reported a "strong" throat hit used liquids with 17.3 mg/mL nicotine, while those with a "weak" hit used liquids with 7.1 mg/mL nicotine.
* Newer models of electronic cigarettes produced a stronger throat hit than older models, and high-voltage batteries also enhanced the sensation.
* The throat hit was associated with ratings of dependence on electronic cigarettes and perceived efficacy in relieving craving and facilitating smoking cessation.
* all satisfaction-related variables were associated with a stronger throat hit, suggesting a relationship between satisfaction and throat hit.
* From a public health perspective, there is a trade-off between e-cigarette models that provide high levels of nicotine, a strong throat hit, high satisfaction, and more effects on smoking, but may also be addictive, and models that contain less nicotine and are less addictive, but produce a weaker throat hit, are less satisfactory, and are possibly less efficient at helping people quit smoking.

Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of considering the throat hit sensation in the design, regulation, and use of electronic cigarettes. The throat hit is strongly associated with nicotine content, satisfaction, and smoking behavior, suggesting that limiting nicotine concentration in refill liquids may be counterproductive for some former smokers. The findings emphasize the need for a balanced approach in regulating electronic cigarettes, considering both their potential benefits and risks.

Etter, Jean-François. “Throat hit in Users of the Electronic Cigarette: an Exploratory Study.” Psychology of addictive Behaviors 30, no. 1 (2016): 93–100. https://doi.org/10.1037/adb0000137.