Exploring the Practice of Dual Vaping: Health Risks and Behavioral Patterns in Nicotine and Cannabis E-Cigarette...

E-cigarettes, initially designed for nicotine consumption, are now increasingly being used to smoke cannabis, resulting in a growing trend known as "dual vaping". This term describes individuals, referred to as "dual users", who use e-cigarettes for both substances. This study aims to review and analyze existing research on dual vaping, with a focus on the associated health risks and behavioral patterns.

A narrative review of the literature was conducted using PubMed. Studies focusing on individuals who use electronic cigarettes for vaping tobacco and cannabis, either chronically or episodically, were examined. Relevant articles were identified and thematically synthesized to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic.

Dual vaping was found to be prevalent among younger men, White and Hispanic populations, and individuals with higher economic status and educational level. The use of one substance was shown to predispose individuals to the use of the other, often leading to concurrent use of both substances. Peer influence and positive expectations regarding e-cigarettes were identified as significant predictors of dual use. Dual vapers exhibited a higher susceptibility to respiratory and systemic symptoms compared to those who exclusively vaped nicotine or cannabis. Moreover, a notable prevalence of psychiatric disorders, such as substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression, was observed in this group. Fruit-flavored e-cigarettes were the most preferred option among dual vapers when using both nicotine and cannabis.

Current evidence is insufficient to fully elucidate the long-term impacts of dual vaping on physical and mental health, particularly when compared to individuals who have never vaped. Further studies are needed to gain a more comprehensive understanding of this behavior.