Electronic cigarettes: a review of safety and clinical issues

J Addict Med. 2014 Jul-Aug;8(4):234-40. doi: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000000043.

Abstract

This clinical case conference discusses 3 cases of patients using electronic cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes, also referred to as electronic nicotine delivery systems or "e-cigarettes," generally consist of a power source (usually a battery) and a heating element (commonly referred to as an atomizer) that vaporize a solution (e-liquid). The user inhales the resulting vapor. E-liquids contain humectants such as propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and usually, but not always, nicotine. Each patient's information is an amalgamation of actual patients and is presented and then followed by a discussion of clinical issues.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nicotine / administration & dosage
  • Nicotine / therapeutic use
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Smoking Cessation / methods*
  • Tobacco Use Disorder / diagnosis
  • Tobacco Use Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Nicotine