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Published on: January 18, 2018
Electronic cigarettes: effective nicotine delivery after acute administration.
Andrea Rae Vansickel1, Thomas Eissenberg
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
Experienced electronic cigarette (EC) users achieved significant nicotine delivery and physiological effects using their preferred devices. User experience and device characteristics appear to influence EC nicotine absorption and impact.
Area of Science:
- Tobacco Control
- Nicotine Research
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Electronic cigarettes (ECs) are marketed for nicotine delivery, but prior studies with new users showed minimal nicotine absorption.
- Experienced users often utilize advanced devices (higher voltage, longer battery life) not studied previously.
- Uncertainty exists regarding the influence of user experience and device type on EC nicotine delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the nicotine delivery and physiological effects of electronic cigarettes (ECs) in experienced users.
- To assess the impact of preferred devices and user experience on nicotine absorption and user-reported effects.
Main Methods:
- Eight experienced EC users (≥3 months use) participated in a 5-hour session.
- Participants used their own EC devices and preferred nicotine cartridges.
- Measurements included plasma nicotine concentration, heart rate, and subjective ratings over four phases: baseline, 10 puffs, 1-hour ad libitum puffing, and 2-hour rest.
Main Results:
- Plasma nicotine concentrations and heart rate significantly increased from baseline within 5 minutes of puffing and remained elevated.
- Subjective ratings indicated increased direct effects of nicotine and product use.
- Withdrawal symptoms decreased during the study session.
Conclusions:
- User experience and specific device characteristics significantly influence electronic cigarette (EC) nicotine delivery and associated physiological and subjective effects.
- Further research manipulating these variables is needed to understand optimal conditions for intended EC effects.
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