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Vaping devices, also known as electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes, are battery-operated devices that people, especially young adults, use to inhale vapors containing flavored products, nicotine, and other chemicals.

It comes in various forms, including e-cigarettes, vape pens, pod systems, mods, disposable vapes, and advanced personal vaporizers (APVs). Vapes typically contain several substances.

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The specific composition may vary depending on the brand and type of device, but a few of the common components are e-liquid, nicotine, flavorings, etc.

This is the main substance in vaping devices. It usually contains a combination of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), which serve as solvents and create vapor when heated. Propylene glycol (PG) is a clear and odorless liquid that is commonly used as a base ingredient in e-liquids. PG helps to produce vapor and carries flavors and nicotine.

Vegetable glycerin (VG) is a thicker and sweeter liquid derived from vegetable oils. It also acts as a base ingredient in e-liquids and contributes to vapor production and smoothness. E-liquids can also contain flavorings to provide various tastes and nicotine, although some e-liquids can be found nicotine-free.

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Nicotine is an addictive substance found in tobacco plants. It is commonly added to e-liquids, especially those intended to mimic the experience of smoking traditional cigarettes. People who are addicted to e-cigarettes are prone to get addicted to smoking.

E-liquids often include a wide range of flavors to enhance a user's vaping experience. These flavorings can vary from traditional tobacco and menthol flavors to fruity, dessert, or beverage-inspired options which can attract and encourage the younger population to ingest nicotine.

Some e-liquids may also contain other chemicals, such as stabilizers, preservatives, or colorants. Consuming all the additives can trigger mood disorders, cause neurotoxicity, damage the blood vessels, and may experience loss of impulse control.

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During the use of E-cigarettes, our lungs get exposed to a variety of chemicals such as those which are added to e-liquids, and other chemicals produced when we engage in the heating/vaporizing process. Various studies have indicated that the nanoparticles and heavy metals produced can be toxic and carcinogenic. In addition, many reports also suggest vaping-associated lung disorders which may cause effects like pneumonitis, Lung injury, and Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) which may lead to respiratory failure and at times could be lethal as well.

As for addiction and its effects on the brain, nicotine is the primary substance that is responsible for the addictive nature of vaping. When nicotine is inhaled via vaping, it enters the circulation swiftly and travels to the brain. There, it binds to nicotine receptors and triggers the release of various neurotransmitters, including dopamine. This release of dopamine is what causes the pleasurable feeling that many people experience when they vape.

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Over a period of time, repeated nicotine exposure may lead to changes in the brain's reward system. The brain adapts to the presence of nicotine by reducing the number of nicotine receptors, desensitizing the reward pathways, and altering the release of neurotransmitters. This process can result in dependence and addiction and is mostly characterized by a strong urge to continue using nicotine to maintain normal brain function and avoid withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine can also have a number of other negative effects on the brain. For example, it can impair cognitive function, memory, and learning. Excess consumption of nicotine can increase the risk of developing depression and anxiety.

The symptoms of nicotine addiction (substance use) can vary from person to person but some common symptoms include:

1. Cravings: Nicotine addiction manifests as an intense longing or craving to use nicotine, frequently accompanied by sensations of restlessness or irritability when unable to satisfy the urge.

2. Withdrawal symptoms: When attempting to quit or reduce nicotine use, individuals may experience symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite, and strong cravings to use nicotine.

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3. Tolerance: With continued use, the body becomes accustomed to nicotine, leading to a need for higher doses to achieve the same desired effect.

4. Dependence: Regular use of vape can cause reliance on nicotine to function normally, both physically and psychologically.

5. Difficulty quitting: People with nicotine addiction often find it more challenging to quit vaping or using other tobacco products.

6. Failed attempts to quit: Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or quit vaping, despite a desire to do so.

It is important to note that vaping and nicotine addiction can have various health risks and detrimental effects on the overall well-being of a person. If you or someone you know is struggling with nicotine (both vape and cigarette) addiction, seeking support from healthcare professionals or addiction specialists can be beneficial in managing and overcoming addiction.

About the author: Dr. Sheetal Chaurasia is a Consultant in Pulmonary Medicine at Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bengaluru. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.

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