Elemental analysis of Tetrahydrocannabinol and Nicotine E-Liquids Related to EVaLI.

Introduction:
This article presents the results of an elemental analysis of tetrahydrocannabinol (ThC) and nicotine e-liquids, which were linked to patients with e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVaLI). The study aimed to determine the concentrations of various contaminants, including lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel, copper, and tin, in these e-liquids.

Key Points:

* The study analyzed the cartridge contents of 65 e-liquid samples using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) preceded by microwave-assisted decomposition.
* Several challenges were encountered during sample preparation, including limited sample quantity, high sample viscosity, and adhesion.
* Several ThC e-liquid samples contained lead (Pb) greater than 0.5 μg/g, while others had part per million levels of nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and/or chromium (Cr).
* Nicotine e-liquid samples collected alongside the ThC e-liquid samples were analyzed in tandem during method development.
* The study discusses the method considerations needed for testing a viscous, hydrophobic sample matrix in limited quantity.
* The article also highlights the importance of monitoring elemental impurities in e-liquids and the potential health risks associated with their inhalation.
* The findings suggest that informal/illicit sources of ThC e-liquids may contain higher levels of elemental impurities, posing a potential health risk to users.

Main Message:
The study underscores the importance of monitoring elemental impurities in e-liquids, particularly those associated with EVaLI. The findings suggest that informal/illicit sources of ThC e-liquids may contain higher levels of elemental impurities, posing a potential health risk to users. Therefore, it is crucial to establish and enforce regulations to ensure the safety and quality of e-liquids sold in the market.

Kubachka KM, Wilson Ra. Elemental analysis of Tetrahydrocannabinol and Nicotine E-Liquids Related to EVaLI. aCS omega. 2021;6(47):32090-32100. doi:10.1021/acsomega.1c04868