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E-Cigarettes
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Substance Use Disorders

E-Cigarettes

E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that heat a liquid containing nicotine and chemicals into an inhalable vapor, posing several known health risks.

E-cigarettes, or electronic cigarettes, are battery-operated smoking devices. Using an e-cigarette is called vaping. The user puffs on the mouthpiece of a cartridge, which causes a vaporizer to heat the liquid inside. This liquid contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals, which turn into the vapor that is inhaled.

While some people believe e-cigarettes are safer than traditional cigarettes or can help with smoking cessation, there is limited information regarding their long-term health risks. However, we do know about several dangers:

  • They contain nicotine, which is addictive
  • They contain other potentially harmful chemicals
  • There is a link between e-cigarette use and tobacco cigarette use in teens
  • The liquid in e-cigarettes can cause nicotine poisoning if someone drinks, sniffs, or touches it

Frequently Asked Questions

Keep all e‑liquids out of reach of children and pets, store them in their original containers, and label them clearly. If you or someone else ingests or swallows the liquid, seek medical help immediately; even a small amount can cause nausea, vomiting, or more severe symptoms.
Studies show that e‑cigarettes may reduce cigarette consumption for some users, but the evidence for long‑term cessation is mixed. Many people switch to e‑cigarettes and continue using nicotine, so they are not a guaranteed quit aid. A healthcare provider can help weigh the risks and benefits for your situation.
Beyond nicotine, e‑vapor contains propylene glycol, glycerin, flavoring agents, and trace metals like nickel and lead. These can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and, in some cases, acute lung injury. The long‑term effects are still being studied, but the presence of these substances is a concern.
Most countries set a minimum age of 18 or 21 for purchasing e‑cigarettes. Retailers are required to verify age at the point of sale, and many online vendors use age‑verification software. Teens who use e‑cigarettes are at higher risk for nicotine addiction and may be more likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes.===
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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