Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or vapes) are an alternative to traditional cigarettes and a tool to help smokers quit.
What are e-cigarettes?
E-cigarettes are devices that heat a liquid (usually containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals) to produce an aerosol that is inhaled. Unlike conventional cigarettes, they do not burn tobacco and therefore do not produce tar or carbon monoxide—two of the most harmful components of cigarette smoke. The aerosol still contains substances that can affect health, although at much lower levels than cigarette smoke.
How effective are e-cigarettes for quitting smoking?
Evidence suggests that e-cigarettes can help some smokers quit, particularly when compared to no support or to traditional nicotine replacement therapies. Clinical trials have shown that smokers using nicotine-containing e-cigarettes are more likely to quit than those using nicotine patches or gum.
Behavioral support—such as counseling or structured quit programs—significantly improves success rates when combined with e-cigarettes.
Who should consider using e-cigarettes?
E-cigarettes may be appropriate for smokers who are looking for an alternative source of nicotine with fewer toxic exposures, they are not recommended for non-smokers.
How to use e-cigarettes effectively to quit
First, choose a device, flavor and nicotine level that adequately replaces your cigarette and prevent cravings. If the nicotine dose is too low, you may relapse to smoking. Take our test to determine the nicotine strength you need in your e-liquid.
Second, set a clear goal to quit smoking completely. Some people switch from traditional cigarettes to e-cigarettes within a few days or weeks. Others, however, may need to use both e-cigarettes and cigarettes (dual use)for a while before they can quit smoking completely, which is perfectly normal.
Third, use the e-cigarette regularly to prevent and manage cravings, rather than waiting until urges become overwhelming.
Fourth, combine vaping with behavioral strategies. Identify triggers, change routines, and develop coping mechanisms, just as you would with any quit attempt.
How long should e-cigarettes be used after quitting?
There is no “ideal” duration; some people use e-cigarettes as a temporary solution, while for others, they replace cigarettes and become a permanent habit.
Gradual reduction in frequency or nicotine strength is not recommended if you still experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms when you reduce. Some individuals may need long-term use at a sufficient dosage, particularly those with a strong dependence on nicotine.
The basic principle is to take a sufficient dose of nicotine for a long enough period to avoid withdrawal symptoms and prevent a relapse into smoking.
Reference:
Lindson N, Livingstone-Banks J, Butler AR, McRobbie H, Bullen CR, Hajek P, Wu AD, Begh R, Theodoulou A, Notley C, Rigotti NA, Turner T, Fanshawe T, Hartmann-Boyce J. Electronic cigarettes for smoking cessation. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2025, Issue 11. Art. No.: CD010216. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD010216.pub10.
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