The aerosol of electronic cigarettes contains fewer toxins than the smoke of conventional cigarettes, but it is not harmless: when heated, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein are formed, and trace carcinogens may be present; long-term risks remain uncertain.
Can vaping help you quit smoking?
- According to randomized trials and meta-analyses, nicotine e-cigarettes may be more effective than usual support and even nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in achieving smoking cessation at 6–12 months
- However, the American Thoracic Society (2020) recommends starting with proven pharmacotherapy (varenicline, combination NRT, bupropion/cytisine), rather than electronic cigarettes — due to unknown long-term safety
- Dual use (both smoking and vaping) reduces the benefit. The greatest benefit is achieved with a complete switch from cigarettes to vaping, followed by planned cessation of vaping
Risks and special situations
- Cases of lung injury (EVALI, 2019) were mostly associated with THC cartridges contaminated with vitamin E acetate from illicit sources, rather than with nicotine devices from retail stores
- In adolescents, pregnant people, and individuals with asthma/COPD or cardiovascular disease, initiating vaping is not recommended. Non-smokers should not start
If you still choose vaping as a step toward quitting tobacco
- Set a clear end date for vaping (for example, in 8–12 weeks)
- Use the minimally effective nicotine concentration and reduce it according to a schedule
- Do not combine with cigarettes; if cravings occur — add pharmacotherapy (best evidence for varenicline)
- Avoid homemade liquids and THC cartridges. Monitor symptoms (shortness of breath, chest pain, cough) — seek medical care if they occur
Bottom line
- The best option for health is complete abstinence: no cigarettes and no vaping
- If you smoke — first try first-line options (behavioral support + varenicline/NRT/bupropion/cytisine)
- Vaping may be considered a last-line tool after failures, with a plan for complete cessation