Vaping vs. Smoking: Prioritising Your Health

The debate between vaping and smoking has become a focal point for Australians looking to quit smoking. With the health implications of smoking well-documented, the search for smoking cessation alternatives has led many to consider vaping. At Best & Well, we want to support Australians in their cessation journey. We understand the Tier 1 and Tier 2 TGA models for cessation and believe your medical professional is the right advisor to help with the right choice for you. In this article, we aim to provide an informative comparison between vaping and smoking, focusing on how Australians can prioritise their health through informed choices. Let’s explore the roles of therapeutic nicotine-free vapes, therapeutic nicotine vapes, nicotine prescriptions, and vape prescriptions, taking a step towards a healthier lifestyle.

The smoke in cigarettes is known for its detrimental effects on health, contributing to a range of diseases, including lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. The combustion of tobacco smoke produces thousands of chemicals, many of which are toxic and can cause harm to nearly every organ in the body. The addictive properties of the nicotine contained in cigarettes make cessation a difficult experience. For Australians grappling with smoking addiction, both the physiological and behavioural, the quest for a therapeutic alternative that addresses both is more pressing than ever.

Vaping has emerged as one of many cessation alternatives to smoking, with many adult users viewing it as a less harmful option. E-cigarettes or vapes work by heating a liquid to generate an aerosol, commonly referred to as vapour, which the user inhales. This liquid may contain nicotine along with flavourings and other additives. The critical difference between vaping and smoking lies in the absence of tobacco combustion, which significantly reduces the production of harmful chemicals. There are 7,000 chemicals in the smoke of a cigarette and between 100 and 200 chemicals, in low doses, in therapeutic vape products, as shown on the TGA’s Hub.

Therapeutic Nicotine vapes have become a tool for smokers looking to quit or reduce their tobacco use. These devices can deliver therapeutic nicotine, satisfying the physiological links to the cravings, and the behavioural links to the hand-to-mouth action, without the harmful tar and chemicals found in cigarette smoke. As of March 1st 2024, Australian adults accessing nicotine vapes will still require a prescription from a registered medical practitioner but can now only access therapeutic vaping products from a pharmacy. This regulation ensures that only TGA-notified therapeutic nicotine vapes are available as part of a controlled smoking cessation plan, rather than access to recreational vaping products that haven’t been reviewed by the TGA, to ensure compliance.

For those wary of therapeutic nicotine’s addictive properties, nicotine-free vapes offer an alternative. These vapes are focused only on the behavioural aspects of smoking,  without ingesting nicotine. Speak with a medical practitioner to see if these are right for you.

In Australia, the regulation around vaping is designed to protect public health while offering adult smokers a medically consulted cessation pathway. Obtaining a vape prescription for therapeutic nicotine-containing products became a legal requirement in October 2021,  with the March 1, 2024 amendments providing increased access to medical practitioners and ensuring only TGA standard therapeutic vapes, that have been notified, are available through an Australian pharmacy. 

Registered medical practitioners work alongside pharmacies to provide individuals with the right treatment plan that suits their needs and prioritises their health and well-being. This process aims to ensure that individuals receive proper guidance and support, making their journey away from smoking as safe and effective as possible.

A nicotine prescription is more than just a regulatory hurdle; it’s a personalised quit plan. Registered medical practitioners can offer advice on the appropriate strength and type of nicotine product, considering the individual’s smoking history and health needs. This tailored approach helps maximise the chances of quitting success while minimising potential risks associated with nicotine use.

The decision to quit smoking is a significant step towards a healthier life. For Australian adults navigating this journey, understanding the differences between smoking and vaping and the implications of nicotine use is vital. Whether opting for any of the therapeutic nicotine-free vapes, nicotine vapes with a prescription, or another cessation aid, the goal remains the same: reducing harm and prioritising health.

When considering the switch from smoking to vaping, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Vaping, particularly with therapeutic nicotine vapes, is not without risks. Talk to your registered medical practitioner so you can make an informed decision.

For Australians ready to take a step towards a smoke-free lifestyle, exploring the right option with your registered medical practitioner, which may include a range of therapeutic nicotine-free vapes and nicotine vapes with a proper vape prescription, can be a part of a comprehensive plan to quit smoking. By making informed choices and seeking appropriate medical advice, embracing a smoke-free future is within reach.

If you need further information on the types of cessation products available, contact us at Best & Well. Our team of support professionals are available to help you on your cessation journey. If you think you may be suitable for a therapeutic nicotine or nicotine-free prescription, visit our website to book a $14 telehealth consultation with a registered medical practitioner.

__________________________________________________________

References