Nicotine Replacement
THE ELECTRONIC (MINI) CIGARETTE AND NICOTINE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
E-Cigarettes as Nicotine Replacement Therapy (smoking cessation aids)
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are not yet recognised as an "NRT" (nicotine replacement theray) or "quit smoking" device, although research is ongoing in this regard. The electronic cigarette is an alternative option to smoking cigarettes containing tobacco and the attendant additional carcinogens.
Based on available research, all we can say is:
- Electronic cigarettes can increase the level of nicotine in the blood
- Electronic cigarettes can help alleviate nicotine cravings (See New Zealand Research)
- Electronic cigarettes have been used to replace cigarettes, according to a joint study we conducted with the University of Alberta. (Electronic Cigarettes as a Potential Harm Reduction Project)
The only study to suggest that electronic cigarettes can be used to stop smoking is an informal South African experiment, in which doctors were given electronic cigarettes to see if they could stop using the devices.
It is currently illegal to claim that ANY electronic cigarette is a Quit Smoking Device - although many less reputable companies do. This is why Google has banned such claims
Simon Parker from the UK Government regulatory body MHRA advised us:
It is unlawful to sell, supply or advertise any unlicensed product for nicotine cessation in the UK. There are no licensed Electronic Cigarettes in the UK.
Please feel free to write to me for further information and confirmation.
Simon Parker
Classifier
Medicines Borderline Section
Inspection, Enforcement & Standards Division
MHRA
So, be wary of such claims - it is up to you to decide to give up, and see what does actually work for you.
Nicotine Replacement Theory and Other Stop Smoking Medicines