Study Reveals Vaping's Higher Potential for Dependency Compared to Nicotine Gum

A recent study published in Nicotine and Tobacco Research highlights that pod-style electronic cigarettes are significantly more addictive than traditional nicotine gum. Conducted by researchers including Andrea Milstred, the research indicates that these vaping devices, especially with nicotine salts, have a strong potential for abuse and addiction.

Since their introduction in 2003, electronic cigarettes have surged in popularity, particularly among youth and young adults in the United States. Notably, a large portion of these users have not previously engaged in regular cigarette smoking—over 30% of adult vapers and up to 61.4% of those aged 18-24. The emergence of pod-style devices, such as Juul and Elf Bar, which deliver nicotine in high concentrations using salt forms, has played a key role in this trend.

These devices are more efficient at delivering nicotine compared to older vaping tools, making them especially appealing to non-smokers and younger populations. The high nicotine concentrations and the salt formulation reduce harshness and bitter tastes, facilitating higher intake and increasing the risk of dependency.

Traditionally, the addictiveness continuum placed traditional cigarettes at the high end, with nicotine replacement therapies like nicotine gum being less addictive. Prior research suggested that electronic cigarettes had a similar or slightly lower abuse potential than traditional cigarettes, especially among existing smokers.

In a pioneering comparison, researchers examined the subjective and behavioral effects of pod-style e-cigarettes versus nicotine gum in adults under 25 who were regular e-cigarette users but nonsmokers. Participants underwent controlled sessions consuming their own devices or gum, with assessments measuring cravings and withdrawal.

Findings revealed that vaping with personal devices was more reinforcing and significantly reduced cravings compared to gum, with increased satisfaction reported by users. The use of nicotine salts in vaping liquids appears to enhance these effects by making nicotine less harsh, especially for young adults and those new to nicotine.

Lead researcher Andrea Milstred emphasized that modern e-cigarettes hold a substantial potential for creating addiction among populations traditionally naive to nicotine, including youth and young adults.

This research underscores the importance of understanding the addictive properties of newer vaping technologies and their impact on public health.