Flavored Vapes Pose Unique Addiction Risk, Even Without Nicotine

A new study led by researchers at Marshall University reveals that flavor additives commonly used in e-cigarettes can enhance nicotine’s effects on the nervous system and may pose an addiction risk on their own. The research, conducted on mice, found that some flavors, such as vanilla, can directly stimulate one of the brain’s key reward centers, even in the absence of nicotine.

Brandon Henderson, an associate professor of biomedical sciences at Marshall who led the study, explained, “Part of it is the flavor chemicals, because they’re being inhaled with a vape, they can get to the brain, and then they can become (central nervous system) active.” This finding raises significant concerns about the under-studied chemicals used in vape products and challenges the perception of nicotine-free vapes as entirely safe.

Henderson also highlighted that the base liquids in vape juice, propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, can generate up to 12 novel chemicals when heated, which are not typically seen in combustible cigarettes. He expressed concern that the “safer alternative” narrative surrounding vaping is misleading. “A lot of individuals see vaping as harm reduction, then the perception becomes, ‘Well, this is safe, period.’ But that’s not the case,” he stated.

The study also underscores the dangers of using multiple nicotine products. “A lot of the clinical evidence shows that if you use more than one type of these nicotine products, your negative health outcomes are worse,” Henderson warned, noting that dual use of vapes and cigarettes can double the risk of stroke compared to using either product independently. He hopes these findings will inform new anti-initiation campaigns and the development of true cessation therapies.