The chemistry and toxicology of vaping

A wide array of vaping devices is available, spanning multiple generations of designs and produced by various manufacturers. What adds to the diversity of these devices is the ability to customize their components and settings. However, amidst this variability, vaping platforms typically consist of three core elements: a battery, an atomizer, and a fluid reservoir. The primary constituents of e-liquids are solvents, sometimes referred as stabilizing agents. These solvents play a vital role in e-liquid formulations by maintaining the suspension of other chemical components like nicotine and flavorants. The most prevalent examples are propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). It's important to note that both propylene glycol and glycerol are airway irritants.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer proved that propylene oxide has a strong evidence to be classified as a carcinogen. Additionally, e-liquids can contain high concentrations of nicotine, which can be toxic when inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or ingested, posing risks to both children and adults. As vaping becomes more widespread across different demographics, the risk of unintentional exposures is also likely to increase. Vaping aerosols often emit pleasant odors, creating a perception that these emissions may be harmless. Nonetheless, literature suggests that "passive vaping" is indeed happening in proximity to vaping users.

In light of changing perceptions about the risks associated with vaping, it is pertinent to draw comparisons with traditional tobacco smoking and its associated health effects. A clinical study involving traditional cigarette smokers who switched to vaping for 12 weeks revealed no significant improvements in vital signs, lung function, or electrocardiogram readings. Furthermore, adverse acute effects such as headaches, sore throats, and coughs were most pronounced in the initial week after switching, while nicotine withdrawal symptoms increased during the first two weeks before subsiding. These findings underscore the importance of considering the potential health consequences of vaping, particularly when compared to conventional smoking.