Electronic “e-cigarettes” have been all the rage of smokers who believe the electronic device is healthier and helpful in putting an end to actual tobacco use. But now the Food and Drug Administration wants a word in the debate.
“E-cigarettes” simulate the act of smoking by producing an inhaled mist that mimics the appearance, nicotine flavoring and overall physical sensation of inhaled tobacco smoke. The device uses heat and/or ultrasonic technology to vaporize a liquid solution into an aerosol mist, for the drag effect smokers love so well. Nicotine then gets absorbed through membranes of the mouth and lungs, giving the user the sensation of smoking a cigarette — as well as the nicotine their body craves. And the best part is: they don’t stink up a room or invade the space of others like tobacco smoke does.
E-cigarettes are supposedly meant to wean smokers off of actual cigarettes by delivering the experience of smoking without the health risks usually connected to tobacco smoke. But concerns that the device still carries health risks and could appeal to non-smokers or children, has prompted the FDA to step in and attempt to impose regulations.
Originally, the FDA wanted e-cigarettes listed as unapproved pharmaceutical products. But after a recent D.C. Circuit Court ruling, the FDA now says e-cigarettes will instead be “subject to general controls, such as registration, product listing, ingredient listing, good manufacturing practice requirements, user fees for certain products, and the adulteration and misbranding provisions, as well as to the premarket review requirements for ‘new tobacco products’ and ‘modified risk tobacco products.'”
So for all you smokers who have been trying to kick the habit, e-cigarettes might be just what the doctor ordered.
