Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of the nicotine delivery and cigarette equivalents of JUULpods, a popular e-cigarette brand. The study reviews various studies to consolidate the findings on JUUL's nicotine pharmacokinetic profile and delivery. The text also compares JUUL's nicotine delivery to that of traditional combustible cigarettes.
Key Points:
* JUUL's nicotine peak levels are half to three-quarters of a combustible cigarette for JUUL-naïve users and comparable to or greater than combustible cigarettes for experienced e-cigarette users.
* JUUL Labs reports that each 5% (nicotine-by-weight) cartridge contains approximately 40mg of nicotine per pod, equivalent to about one pack of cigarettes.
* Five independent studies found that nicotine in the liquid in a JUULpod ranges from 39.3 to 48.3 mg.
* Seven studies measured nicotine delivery via vaping-machine generated aerosols, with nicotine values ranging from 72 to 164 µg/puff.
* at 200 puffs, this is 14.4-32.8 mg of nicotine per pod, equivalent to 13-30 cigarettes.
* a study measuring nicotine levels in JUUL users during a 5-day controlled switch found equivalence to 18 cigarettes.
* JUUL's design facilitates initiation to a high nicotine, and ultimately, highly addictive vaping product.
Main Message:
The text highlights that one JUULpod appears capable of delivering the nicotine equivalent to smoking about a pack of cigarettes, with variability. The study suggests that JUUL's design facilitates initiation to a high nicotine, and ultimately, highly addictive vaping product. Therefore, it is crucial to regulate e-cigarettes, especially those that deliver high levels of nicotine, to prevent youth uptake and potential health risks.
Citation
Prochaska JJ, Vogel Ea, Benowitz N. Nicotine delivery and cigarette equivalents from vaping a JUULpod. Tobacco control. 2022;31:e88-e93. doi:10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2020-056367
