Introduction to Vape Addiction
Vanilla dreams, dopamine schemes.
Everyone knows nicotine is an extremely addictive substance, so it makes sense that people who might want to quit vaping — or not get hooked in the first place — would try a nicotine-free option as a safer alternative.
But a new study suggests they might not be as in the clear as they think.
A new study suggests nicotine-free vapes aren’t as safe as people might think. leszekglasner – stock.adobe.com
The Study on Flavored Vapes
Male and female adolescent mice were exposed to flavored aerosols to see how they affected the flow of dopamine in brain regions that control rewards, perhaps influencing their mood, pleasure or addiction.
Four combinations of flavors and nicotine led to heightened reinforcement-related behaviors: nicotine paired with menthol, cherry or vanilla — as well as vanilla flavor on its own.
Notably, vanilla-flavored vapor alone, even without nicotine, was enough to prompt behavior linked to reward-seeking.
In contrast, cherry flavor by itself did not have the same effect.
The research also showed that green apple and vanilla compounds can alter the activity of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors — the same proteins that nicotine hijacks to create dependence.
Impact on the Brain
All told, it presents a fairly scary picture of how any kind of vaping can negatively impact the brain — especially young, developing ones.
“These findings are significant because they demonstrate that some electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) flavors can modulate the brain’s dopamine system — specifically in the nucleus accumbens, a key reward center — even without nicotine present,” lead investigator Brandon J. Henderson, associate professor of biomedical sciences at Marshall University, said in a statement.
Researchers found that mice exposed to popular vape flavors like vanilla and cherry showed signs of addictive behavior, even when nicotine was not involved. YarikL – stock.adobe.com
Comparison with Other Research
“This raises important questions about the potential for addiction-like behaviors in adolescents who use flavored vape products marketed as nicotine-free.”
The findings align with other research indicating nicotine-free vapes may still carry cognitive risks.
A 2021 study found that even nicotine‑free, flavor‑free e‑cigarette vapor altered lung responses in female mice.
And another 2021 study suggested that while flavored vapes alone don’t appear to be addictive, their presence did boost nicotine’s appeal.
Health Hazards of Vaping
Mounting evidence points to the health hazards of vaping in general.
While New York and the federal government restricted the sale of flavored e-cigarettes or vapes in 2020, the ban has not really been enforced — and new e-cigarette products are continuously emerging. TNS
Recent research revealed that e-cigarettes release a shocking amount of toxic metals, with some producing more lead in a day’s use than nearly 20 packs of traditional cigarettes.
Some of the devices contained nickel and antimony levels that could increase the risk of cancer, as well as lead and nickel emissions that could lead to brain and lung damage.
Equally worrying is that the newer, disposable vapes seemed to emit more toxic metals than earlier, refillable vapes, according to the study.
Conclusion
The study’s findings suggest that flavored vapes, even those without nicotine, can be addictive and pose health risks, particularly to adolescents. The continuous emergence of new e-cigarette products and the lack of enforcement of the ban on flavored e-cigarettes are concerning. It is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with vaping and to take steps to prevent addiction and protect public health.
FAQs
Q: Are nicotine-free vapes safe?
A: No, nicotine-free vapes may still carry cognitive risks and can be addictive, even without nicotine.
Q: What are the health hazards of vaping?
A: Vaping can release toxic metals, including lead, nickel, and antimony, which can increase the risk of cancer and brain and lung damage.
Q: Are flavored vapes more addictive than unflavored vapes?
A: Yes, flavored vapes, especially those with vanilla and cherry flavors, can be more addictive than unflavored vapes, even without nicotine.
Q: What can be done to prevent addiction and protect public health?
A: It is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with vaping, to enforce bans on flavored e-cigarettes, and to take steps to prevent addiction, such as educating adolescents about the dangers of vaping and providing support for those who want to quit.
