analysis of illicit drugs in purchased and seized electronic cigarette liquids from the United Kingdom 2014-2021.

Introduction:
This article discusses the results of a study analyzing the content of electronic cigarette (EC) liquids submitted in the United Kingdom from 2014 to 2021. The study aimed to identify components of EC liquids and discuss the changes and trends relevant to changes in UK legislation. The researchers also investigated differences in EC liquid content from a small number of samples originating from two different vulnerable groups: prisoners and teenagers.

Key Points:

* The study analyzed 112 EC liquids using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-qTOF-MS).
* Nicotine was detected in 78% of the EC liquids analyzed.
* Twenty-two samples contained one or more synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRas), including three samples collected after the introduction of the Psychoactive Substances act (PSa) in 2016.
* ThC was detected in 11 samples, and six samples contained a mixture of ThC and CBD.
* In all cases where information was available, the ThC/CBD content was less than that stated on the product label.
* The data collected showed great variation in EC liquid content.
* Substances now controlled under both the UK Misuse of Drugs act and Psychoactive Substances act were present in some samples.

Main Message:
The study highlights the need for closer content monitoring and comprehensible information on the possible health effects of ECs. The data collected shows a great variation in EC liquid content, and substances now controlled under both the UK Misuse of Drugs act and Psychoactive Substances act were present in some samples. This emphasizes the urgent need for better regulation and education on the effects and possible negative consequences of vaping.

Frinculescu a, Coombes G, Shine T, Ramsey J, Johnston a, Couchman L. analysis of illicit drugs in purchased and seized electronic cigarette liquids from the United Kingdom 2014-2021. Drug testing and analysis. Published online april 24, 2022. doi:10.1002/dta.3277