Electronic Cigarettes (e-Cigarettes)

It is always interesting to see how the FDA continues to define a product they have no understanding of, yet make it there point to have a very strong opinion on.

What are electronic cigarettes? 

Electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, are battery-operated products designed to deliver nicotine, flavor and other chemicals.  They turn nicotine, which is highly addictive, and other chemicals into a vapor that is inhaled by the user.

 

Image of an e-Cigarette inserted into a charger.

Most e-cigarettes are manufactured to look like conventional cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Some resemble everyday items such as pens and USB memory sticks.

As the safety and efficacy of e-cigarettes have not been fully studied, consumers of e-cigarette products currently have no way of knowing:
 

• whether e-cigarettes are safe for their intended use,
• how much nicotine or other potentially harmful chemicals are being inhaled during use, or
• if there are any benefits associated with using these products.

Additionally, it is not known if e-cigarettes may lead young people to try other tobacco products, including conventional cigarettes, which are known to cause disease and lead to premature death.