Liquid Nicotine, E-Cigarettes, and Vaping

E-cigarettes, or electronic cigarettes, are electronic nicotine delivery systems that are marketed as a healthier alternative to tobacco cigarettes. There has been an exponential increase in their use among youth since their introduction to the United States market in 2007. With increased use and popularity, there has been an increase in calls to poison control centers regarding liquid nicotine toxicity in children and adolescents. Recent US Food and Drug Administration and other federal regulations of e-cigarettes have attempted to limit availability to youth. This article reviews trends in e-cigarette use among youth, the background and mechanism of action of e-cigarettes, liquid nicotine toxicity, management of liquid nicotine toxicity, and recent policy updates regarding e-cigarettes.