Trends and associated risks in adolescent substance use: E-cigarette use and nitrous oxide use

Abstract

Two new trends in adolescent substance use have emerged: e-cigarette use and nitrous oxide (N₂0) use. E-cigarettes are often tried out before traditional cigarettes, are easily available and regarded as harmless by adolescents. Studies increasingly show negative health effects of regular e-cigarette use, including the risk of becoming a smoker of traditional cigarettes and nicotine addiction. N₂0 use has also become increasingly popular, and follows after cannabis and ecstasy use in prevalence rates. As with e-cigarette use, most users are not aware of potential health risks of N₂0 use, while particularly longer-term and heavy use may yield negative neurological and psychiatric effects. The misconception of risks, and high availability of both inhalants warrant better education to prevent poor outcomes.

Keywords: Adolescent substance use; E-cigarettes; Nitrous oxide; Risk perception; Vaping.