Quitting smoking is one of the most challenging yet rewarding decisions a person can make. While smoking rates in Australia have steadily declined due to increased public health efforts and better awareness, many smokers still struggle to quit. Fortunately, a range of smoking cessation and nicotine therapy tools are now available to support those looking to break free from tobacco. Among these options, nicotine inhalation therapy including nicotine vapes has emerged as a popular choice for many Australians.

 This article explores nicotine vapes and nicotine inhalation therapy—a widely used alternative for those trying to quit smoking—and highlights the various smoking cessation options available to help Australians transition away from tobacco.

The Challenges of Quitting Smoking

Cigarette smoking remains a leading cause of preventable illness and death in Australia, responsible for thousands of deaths every year. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), smoking is responsible for approximately 9% of all deaths in Australia annually. Despite the decline in smoking rates, around 11% of Australians aged 14 and over were still smoking daily as of 2020, according to the AIHW. These statistics highlight the ongoing challenge of addressing tobacco dependence and facilitating smoking cessation in Australia.

The addictive nature of nicotine, combined with the psychological and social triggers associated with smoking, makes quitting a complex and often long-term process. Many smokers find that traditional methods of cessation, such as cold turkey or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), don't always provide the support they need.

 

What are Nicotine Vapes and Nicotine Inhalation Therapy?

Nicotine vapes are a form of nicotine inhalation therapy (NIT), where electronic devices like e-cigarettes or vape pens are used to inhale vaporised nicotine. These devices heat a liquid known as e-liquid or vape juice, which typically contains nicotine, flavourings, and other ingredients. Unlike traditional smoking, vaping eliminates combustion, meaning there is no tobacco smoke, tar, or many of the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. This makes nicotine vaping a less harmful alternative for smokers who want to reduce their risk while managing nicotine cravings.

As a type of nicotine inhalation therapy, vaping delivers a controlled dose of nicotine, helping individuals manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This can support smokers who are looking to gradually reduce their nicotine dependency, making it a helpful tool for smoking cessation. Nicotine vapes offer a similar experience to smoking but without the harmful byproducts of tobacco combustion.

In Australia, nicotine vaping is available through a nicotine prescription, allowing access to nicotine e-liquids specifically designed for therapeutic use. This prescription-based access ensures that nicotine vaping is used in a regulated, controlled way and can be incorporated into a medically supervised smoking cessation plan.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) recognises nicotine vaping as a harm reduction strategy for smokers who have struggled to quit using other methods. When used correctly, it can help individuals transition away from traditional cigarettes and potentially quit smoking altogether.

While nicotine vaping is still being researched, it has gained popularity as an alternative for those looking to quit smoking. Health experts recommend using nicotine vapes as part of a comprehensive smoking cessation plan, under the supervision of a healthcare provider, especially when accessed through a nicotine prescription. This ensures the best possible outcomes for those wishing to reduce or eliminate their tobacco use.

Types of Nicotine Inhalation Therapy in Australia

Australia offers several options for smokers who wish to use nicotine inhalation therapy as part of their quit plan. Below are some of the most common methods available:

 

1. Nicotine Vaping Products (E-Cigarettes)

Nicotine vapes have gained significant popularity as a method for reducing or quitting smoking, offering an alternative to traditional cigarettes. Nicotine e-cigarettes work by vaporising a nicotine-infused liquid (e-liquid or vape juice), which is then inhaled.

Unlike traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes do not burn tobacco and do not produce the harmful tar or carbon monoxide found in cigarette smoke. Nicotine e-cigarettes can come in the form of vape pens, refillable vapes or prefilled vape pod systems. These devices are typically used with nicotine salt eLiquids that contain either freebase nicotine or nicotine salts.

In Australia, nicotine-containing e-cigarettes are available only through a prescription. According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), this regulation was introduced in October 2021 to ensure that nicotine vaping products are used in a manner that supports smoking cessation. As of this date, nicotine-containing e-cigarettes can only be legally obtained with a prescription from an Australian doctor. 

While access to nicotine e-cigarettes is still restricted, they are widely regarded as a useful smoking cessation option, especially for smokers who have struggled with other cessation methods. Research from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) shows that vaping has been effective for some smokers in managing cravings and gradually reducing nicotine intake.

 

2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is an established method for quitting smoking that involves providing a controlled dose of nicotine without the other harmful chemicals in cigarettes. NRT products are available in several forms, including nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and sprays. These products are designed to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. 

One popular option within the NRT category is the nicotine inhaler. A nicotine inhaler, such as Nicorette Inhaler, mimics the hand-to-mouth action of smoking, making it easier for smokers to manage their cravings. The device delivers nicotine through a mouthpiece, allowing users to inhale the vaporised nicotine, which helps reduce withdrawal symptoms without the harmful effects of smoking.

According to Quit Victoria, research has shown that NRTs can help smokers double their chances of quitting compared to willpower alone, making them a highly recommended option for many trying to stop smoking.

 

3. Nicotine Prescription for Vaping Products

As of October 2021, Australians can access vaping products or e-cigarettes containing nicotine through a prescription. This regulation means that a doctor can prescribe vaping products as part of a smoking cessation plan, giving smokers access to vaping devices and nicotine eLiquids under medical supervision.

The prescription system allows healthcare professionals to tailor a treatment plan to individual needs, monitoring progress and adjusting nicotine dosages as required. This approach provides smokers with an additional option for quitting, especially for those who may not have found success with other forms of NRT. According to the Australian Government Department of Health, this system ensures that e-cigarettes are used as part of a structured quitting plan under the guidance of a healthcare provider. 

 

4. Nicotine Salts and Pod Systems

One of the more recent developments in the world of vaping is the use of nicotine salts in e-cigarettes. Nicotine salts are a form of nicotine that allows for higher concentrations of nicotine to be delivered without the harsh throat hit typically associated with freebase nicotine.

Devices like the PHIX 6000 use prefilled pods that contain nicotine salt eLiquid, providing a smoother, more satisfying hit similar to smoking a traditional cigarette. Nicotine salt-based vapes have become increasingly popular because they offer a quicker nicotine absorption rate and a more cigarette-like experience, making them particularly effective for smokers who are trying to quit.

 

Benefits of Nicotine Inhalation Therapy

Nicotine inhalation therapy offers several advantages for those looking to quit smoking:

- Mimics the Smoking Experience: Many smokers find it easier to quit when they can replicate the hand-to-mouth action and inhalation process of smoking. Inhalation therapy products like e-cigarettes or nicotine inhalers can satisfy both the physical and psychological aspects of smoking.

- Gradual Nicotine Reduction: These products allow users to control how much nicotine they consume, gradually reducing their intake over time as they work toward quitting.

- Convenient and Discreet: Nicotine inhalation devices, such as vapes and inhalers, are often portable and discreet, making them easier to use than traditional smoking cessation products like gum or patches.

- Effective for Many Smokers: For many people, nicotine inhalation therapy offers a more effective solution to quitting smoking compared to other methods, such as going cold turkey or relying solely on nicotine patches.

 

What's Next for Smoking Cessation in Australia?

As smoking rates continue to decline, nicotine inhalation therapies are increasingly recognised as part of Australia's broader strategy for smoking cessation. These therapies, combined with healthcare support and smoking cessation programs, offer smokers a practical and structured way to quit.

Although there are still regulations in place regarding the sale and use of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes in Australia, these products have the potential to play a major role in helping smokers transition away from tobacco. With continued research, public health efforts, and access to tailored treatments, more Australians will have the support they need to quit smoking for good.

 

Ready to Quit Smoking?

For Australians looking to quit smoking, nicotine inhalation therapy offers a variety of options to help make that transition easier. Whether through nicotine vapes, inhalers, or other nicotine replacement products, these tools provide smokers with a practical way to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also reducing the harmful effects of tobacco use. 

If you're ready to quit smoking, speaking with a healthcare professional can help you determine the best course of action. With the right guidance and the right tools, becoming smoke-free is within reach.

Sources:

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), "Tobacco smoking in Australia," 2020.

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), "Nicotine Inhalation Therapy for Smoking Cessation."

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), "Vaping Products and Regulations in Australia," 2021.

Quit Victoria, "Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and Quitting," 2020.

Australian Government Department of Health, "Nicotine Vaping Products and Regulations."