e-Cigarettes/Vaping

E-cigarettes and vapes are the same thing. The terms are used interchangeably.
An e-cigarette is a device for inhaling ‘vapour’ (an aerosol) that usually contains nicotine. E-cigarettes contain a battery that heats up a liquid which usually consists of nicotine dissolved in propylene glycol or glycerine and added flavourings. The heating of the liquid produces the ‘vapour’ which delivers nicotine into the body when it is inhaled. The strongest nicotine fluid that can be legally bought in the UK is 20mg per ml. This is often written as 2% on the vape. On the 1st of June 2025, it became illegal to sell and provide single use e-cigarettes.
The research regarding e-cigarettes can appear to be conflicting however it does seem to indicate that e-cigarettes can be a useful aid for stopping smoking. Because the long-term effects of using e-cigarettes remains unknown, they are not recommended for long-term use. However, if someone is at risk of going back to smoking tobacco if they stop using an e-cigarette, it would be better to continue to use an e-cigarette because, based on current knowledge, they are not as harmful as cigarettes.
Using e-cigarettes without stopping smoking (dual use) will not have health benefits. It is recommended that if you are using both, you stop smoking.
E-cigarettes should not be used by non-smokers and people under 18 years old. It is illegal to sell or provide e-cigarettes to people under 18 years old.
E-cigarettes should not be used by non-smokers and people under 18 years old. It is illegal to sell or provide e-cigarettes to people under 18 years old.
Stopping Vaping
Some people who have started vaping, want to stop. Here are some tips to stop vaping.
Reduce nicotine gradually: After 12 weeks of no tobacco at all (exclusive use of vape) reduce your usual nicotine liquid strength every 2-4 weeks, or longer as needed
Reduce when you vape: If you normally vape every 20 mins, try waiting 40 mins. Only vape at certain times of the day. Avoid constantly having your vape in your hand
Reduce where you vape: Don’t vape inside buildings, in the car or in front of kids. Only vape at work on breaks, outside. Check your employer’s policy first to make sure you know where vaping is permitted
Choose a flavour you really do not like: Making vaping less pleasant and enjoyable
Nicotine Replacement Therapy: Nicorette® QuickMist is the only medicine licensed for quitting vaping. It provides quick relief when you have a craving. This is not available on prescription to stop vaping but can be purchased. Speak to your local community pharmacy for more information
Reduce nicotine gradually: After 12 weeks of no tobacco at all (exclusive use of vape) reduce your usual nicotine liquid strength every 2-4 weeks, or longer as needed
Reduce when you vape: If you normally vape every 20 mins, try waiting 40 mins. Only vape at certain times of the day. Avoid constantly having your vape in your hand
Reduce where you vape: Don’t vape inside buildings, in the car or in front of kids. Only vape at work on breaks, outside. Check your employer’s policy first to make sure you know where vaping is permitted
Choose a flavour you really do not like: Making vaping less pleasant and enjoyable
Nicotine Replacement Therapy: Nicorette® QuickMist is the only medicine licensed for quitting vaping. It provides quick relief when you have a craving. This is not available on prescription to stop vaping but can be purchased. Speak to your local community pharmacy for more information