In the UK, an estimated 4.5 million adults smoke e-cigarettes. This figure continues to rise and reflects the rapid spread of the devices, which are seen as an alternative to traditional cigarettes.
Many people consider e-cigarettes as a trendy alternative. The electronic devices create a vapor that resembles cigarette smoke but has a flavor depending on the e-liquid. Disposable products are also increasingly available and are popular for their convenience.
Despite the change in form, the nature of the act of inhaling nicotine-containing vapor remains not much different from that of conventional cigarettes.
Mechanism of addiction
E-cigarettes are highly addictive. The central ingredient is nicotine. Most e-liquids in circulation contain nicotine, and users often have no control over how much they inhale each day.
With disposable devices, the nicotine is even pre-loaded and easy to consume in a short time.
It is difficult for users to control the amount of nicotine they inhale when using e-cigarettes (Photo: Getty).
When you vape, nicotine is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to an increase in dopamine, a feel-good chemical in the brain.
This is the response that keeps the user reaching for the next puff. The cycle of craving and relief continues. This mechanism is similar to traditional cigarettes and makes quitting very difficult.
Time to form addiction
The rate of addiction depends on the individual and the frequency of use. Many people can become dependent after just a few days.
The UK's National Health Service has warned that using e-cigarettes even occasionally for a few days is enough to develop dependence.
Nicotine binds to receptors in the brain very quickly. Each puff creates a new cycle of craving and pleasure. The more you do it, the more your brain remembers and forms automatic behavior.
The amount of nicotine in e-cigarettes varies greatly between devices and e-liquids.
Some products have the same amount of nicotine as traditional cigarettes (around 12mg), while others contain less or no nicotine.
The nicotine concentration in e-cigarettes is usually measured in mg/mL or %. For example, a 2mg/mL e-cigarette contains 2mg of nicotine per 1mL of liquid. This may not sound like much, but the amount a user consumes each day can add up to a significant amount of total nicotine.
Many pod e-cigarettes (e.g., JUUL) use nicotine salts, which allow for higher nicotine concentrations and a smoother throat hit. This is what makes pod devices so addictive.
Signs of dependence
Some users show signs of dependence. They crave nicotine or feel uncomfortable without their device. They vape first thing in the morning or use it throughout the day. Many try to cut down but are unsuccessful. Some continue to vape even when it is inconvenient or prohibited in the space they are in.
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms are also easy to observe. Users may experience anxiety, restlessness, headaches, or difficulty concentrating when they don’t inhale. These are classic signs of chemical dependence.
The group most at risk is children and adolescents. Their brains are still developing and are more sensitive to the effects of nicotine.
Children and teenagers are susceptible to nicotine addiction because their brains are still developing (Photo: Getty).
Once the craving cycle is established, the likelihood of quitting becomes very low. Former cigarette smokers are also more likely to switch to electronic devices because they perceive them as a less harmful option. People who are stressed or anxious are also more likely to turn to electronic devices for emotional relief.
Social influence is accelerating this process. A survey by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) in the UK found that more than 20% of 11-17 year olds have tried e-cigarettes. This increase has been marked since 2020.
Of those who have tried it, one in five said it was because a friend or relative also used it. Frequent exposure makes e-cigarettes seem normal and easy to try.
E-cigarette dependence is not a light one. It can cause many difficulties in studying, working and living. The level of nicotine in e-vapor can be higher than users think. Continuous use makes the brain get used to high concentrations and requires more over time. This is an easy path to serious addiction.
Limiting and eventually quitting e-cigarettes is a necessary step to reduce the risk of long-term damage to the brain and respiratory system, especially in young people. By understanding the mechanism of addiction and how nicotine affects the brain, users can make better choices for their own health.
Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/mot-lan-su-dung-thuoc-la-dien-tu-cho-biet-cung-de-gay-nghien-20251127131319925.htm
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