a review of nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes-Trends in use, effects, contents, labelling accuracy and detection methods.

Introduction:
This review article examines the trends, effects, contents, labelling accuracy, and detection methods of nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes (ECs). The authors provide an in-depth analysis of the current state of ECs, highlighting the potential risks associated with their use. Readers will learn about the various aspects of ECs, including the accuracy of nicotine strength labelling, the impact of flavourings, and the health risks associated with ECs.

Key Points:

* ECs have gained popularity, especially among younger generations, with over 7000 unique e-liquid flavours and over 400 brands available.
* Nicotine strength labelling in e-liquids is often inaccurate, with 23 studies showing mislabelling frequencies and discrepancies.
* Preliminary studies suggest that high nicotine levels delivered via aerosol increase the risk for nicotine poisoning and cause airway inflammation.
* Other EC ingredients, such as flavourings, contribute to EVaLI and 'popcorn lung'.
* Certain flavourings, such as menthol, reinforce the effects of nicotine and modify drug absorption and metabolism.
* There is a need for better quality control in EC products to ensure consumer safety.
* Laws and regulations regarding ECs vary globally, with only three countries banning the sale of nicotine-containing ECs.
* alarmingly, e-cigarette flavourings highly appeal to youths, and the flavoured e-liquids that appeal more to youths may be more dangerous than non-flavoured e-liquids.

Main Message:
The review highlights the need for stricter regulations and quality control measures in the EC industry. The inaccurate labelling of nicotine strength and the potential health risks associated with EC ingredients, particularly flavourings, pose significant concerns. as ECs continue to gain popularity, especially among younger generations, it is crucial to ensure their safety and reduce the potential harm they can cause.

Taylor a, Dunn K, Turfus S. a review of nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes-Trends in use, effects, contents, labelling accuracy and detection methods. Drug testing and analysis. 2021;13(2):242-260. doi:10.1002/dta.2998