Electronic nicotine and non-nicotine delivery systems: a brief (2020)

Electronic nicotine and non-nicotine delivery systems (EN&NNDS) are a heterogeneous class of products that use an electrically powered coil to heat and turn a liquid into an aerosol, which is inhaled by the user. EN&NNDS are not harmless. Although the consequences for long-term effects on morbidity and mortality have not yet been studied sufficiently, EN&NNDS are not safe for young people, pregnant women and adults who have never smoked. While it is expected that use of EN&NNDS in these groups might increase their health risks, non-pregnant adult smokers who completely and promptly switch from combustible tobacco cigarettes to use of unadulterated and appropriately regulated EN&NNDS alone might reduce their health risks. Member States that decide to regulate EN&NNDS may consider, inter alia: regulating EN&NNDS that make health claims as medicinal products and therapeutic devices; banning or restricting advertising, promotion and sponsorship of EN&NNDS; minimizing health risks to non-users by outlawing the use of EN&NNDS in all indoor spaces or where smoking is prohibited; and limiting the level and number of specific flavours allowed in EN&NNDS to reduce initiation by young people