E-cigarettes (electronic cigarettes), sometimes referred to as vapes use an ‘e-liquid’ that usually contains nicotine, as well as varying compositions of flavourings, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, and other ingredients. The e-liquid is heated to create an aerosol that the user inhales or ‘vapes’. The level of nicotine varies and some e-liquids can contain as much nicotine as a pack of 20 cigarettes. Some vape product labels do not show that they contain nicotine. Some vape liquids sold as 0% nicotine have been found to contain nicotine. E-cigarettes work by delivering a “hit” of nicotine. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance. 

The HSE recommends that every effort is made to discourage young people from vaping. The brain of a young person is still developing up to the age of 25. Using nicotine can change a young person’s brain and create lifelong nicotine addiction. The Health Research Board in Ireland found that young people who vape are three to five times more likely to begin smoking conventional, factory-made cigarettes. Nicotine can also train the brain to be more easily addicted to other drugs like cocaine.

[See also, information for parents, guardians and young people]