E-cigarettes, also known as vapes, are battery-powered devices that simulate the sensation of smoking. They generally consist of a mouthpiece, battery and cartridge. These devices heat a liquid to generate an aerosol, or a ‘vapour’, which you then inhale. The liquids typically contain nicotine and flavouring chemicals. Because the liquid is heated and not burned and contains no tobacco, the nicotine is delivered without many of the thousands of chemicals which cause the significant harm and damage to the body.
Types of e-cigarettes
Cig-a-like’ products: Early models (First Generation) of e-cigarettes look like cigarettes in shape and size and sometimes referred to as ‘cigalikes’. They include both non-rechargeable disposable models and reusable models. Not many people use these types of products now.
‘Tank’ models or vape pens: An e-cigarette with a rechargeable atomiser – the part that vaporises the e-liquid) – and a tank which needs to be filled with an e-liquid.
Pod systems: These are small rechargeable devices, often shaped like a USB stick or a pebble and use e-liquid capsules. They are simple to use and to maintain.
‘Mods’, or advanced personal vaporisers: A more complex tank model which can be manually customised, for example by adjusting the power on the device.
Are e-cigarettes safe?
E-cigarettes have been available for purchase for over 15 years in Scotland. They have become increasingly popular.
E-cigarettes are not risk free but for adult smokers, current evidence suggests vapes are less harmful than smoking tobacco products. Thus, it may be preferable if adult smokers used them instead of tobacco. Using both e-cigarettes and smoking is not recommended, as it does not reduce the harm from smoking tobacco. Ultimately, however we want people not to smoke or vape.
Key point to remember about e-cigarettes:
For adults who wish to quit smoking vaping is an option, although not harmless, current evidence suggests it is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
Young people and people who have never smoked should avoid vaping completely.
If you vape it is important that you do not modify your devices or products or use illegal substances in devices.
There is emerging evidence that vapes may create a new way in to smoking for young people.
There is no evidence that passive vaping carries health risks to by-standers.
Can I get e-cigarettes through the NHS?
No, these are currently not available through the NHS. However, our specialist stop smoking services can offer behavioural support to smokers who want to quit smoking using a vape, via our Quit Your Way Services.
Products like Nicotine Replacement Therapy (e.g. patches, gum, lozenges etc.) and Varenicline are available from the NHS to help people to stop smoking.
Although we cannot supply e-cigarettes, we understand that many smokers are using them to cut down or stop smoking altogether. We want to help those who are using e-cigarettes to stop smoking and would benefit from the additional support our services can offer.
Safety Advice
- Store nicotine solution away from children and pets, as you would with any medicine
- It is safe to use an e-cigarette with NRT. If you feel sick or dizzy, stop using the e-cigarette / use less frequently / move to an e-liquid with lower level of nicotine
- Ensure you thoroughly wash hands if handling e-liquids
- Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer carefully
- Heed any warnings supplied with the product
- Ensure that e-cigarettes are not left charging for long periods of time
- Do not leave e-cigarettes plugged in overnight or whilst out of the house
- Look out for the CE mark that indicates chargers comply with European Safety Standards.
Vaping Risks and Resources Pack
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has created a suite of new resources which provide information on the risks associated with vaping and give guidance to young people and adults looking to cut-down or quit.
Access our Vaping Risks and Resources Pack for a summary of these resources as well as links to download, print or order larger print runs of materials through our Public Health Resource Directory.
Alternatively, continue to scroll down and read about them here.
Stop vaping tips for adults
If you are thinking of stopping vaping, our stop vaping tips for adults leaflet can help you to get started.
Young People and e-cigarettes
There has been a rise in the number of young people trying e-cigarettes, despite the fact that they have never previously smoked cigarettes. Greater Glasgow and Clyde has produced a briefing paper to highlight the key evidence, concerns and advice around vaping, which will benefit parents, carers and any staff who work with young people. You can download our briefing paper and a condensed version of the briefing paper below:
If you are thinking of stopping vaping, our stop vaping tips for young people leaflet can help you to get started.
The videos below offer a helpful introduction to discussing the topic of vaping with young people plus advice and tips on stopping vaping.
Filmed at the City of Glasgow College, it follows a young person explaining what a vape is, what nicotine does to the brain and how vapes can be a drain on a young person’s health, development and finances. The second video offers tips to cut down or quit vaping.
Use of e-cigarettes on NHS grounds
The use of e-cigarettes is now permitted on our NHS grounds in a bid to further cut smoking rates. However, they cannot be used in buildings or at entrances and exits to hospitals and other health facilities. Please do not dispose of used e-cigarettes or cartridges in general waste bins.
Smoking is not permitted, inside or outside, on any NHS Hospital site or grounds.
