Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of nicotine levels in electronic cigarettes (ECs) and their vapor. The study aims to assess the efficacy and consistency of various EC brands in converting nicotine to vapor and to analyze the dynamics of nicotine vaporization.
Key Points:
* Sixteen ECs were selected based on their popularity in the Polish, U.K., and U.S. markets.
* Vapors were generated using an automatic smoking machine modified to simulate puffing conditions of real EC users.
* Nicotine was absorbed in a set of washing bottles with methanol and analyzed with gas chromatography.
* The total level of nicotine in vapor generated by 20 series of 15 puffs varied from 0.5 to 15.4 mg.
* Most of the analyzed ECs effectively delivered nicotine during the first 150-180 puffs.
* On average, 50%-60% of nicotine from a cartridge was vaporized.
* EC brands and models differ in their efficacy and consistency of nicotine vaporization.
* In ECs, which vaporize nicotine effectively, the amount inhaled from 15 puffs is lower compared with smoking a conventional cigarette.
Main Message:
The study demonstrates that ECs generate vapor containing nicotine, but EC brands and models differ in their efficacy and consistency of nicotine vaporization. Therefore, it is important for regulatory agencies to consider these variations when evaluating the safety and efficacy of ECs as a potential alternative to traditional tobacco products.
Citation
Goniewicz, M. L., T. Kuma, M. Gawron, J. Knysak, and L. Kosmider. “Nicotine Levels in Electronic Cigarettes.” Nicotine & Tobacco Research 15, no. 1 (January 1, 2013): 158–66. https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/nts103.
