REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — Since its emergence, vape has often been considered as an alternative cigarette healthier. In fact, many smokers are switching to vape hoping to get out of the habit smoking unhealthy.
Ironically, the use of vape can be more addictive than conventional cigarettes. Dr Sara Kayat revealed that the activity of smoking cigarettes involves the process of heating the vape liquid. Like conventional cigarettes, this liquid also contains nicotine which can trigger addiction.
“Often, the nicotine content found in vapes is significantly higher than (nicotine) in cigarettes,” said Dr. Express on Tuesday (22/8/2023).
The higher the nicotine content, the stronger the addictive effects it can cause. Therefore, Dr. Kayat revealed that the activity of smoking vape or vaping can be more addictive than smoking.
Why is nicotine addictive?
According to the Mayo Clinic, nicotine can travel to the brain and release a neurotransmitter called dopamine. Dopamine is a hormone responsible for feelings of satisfaction or pleasure and good moods. The more often someone is exposed to nicotine, both from cigarettes and vapes, the more nicotine they need to feel the same pleasure.
According to the Director of Clinical Research from Johns Hopkins Medicine, Mr. Michael Blaha, nicotine is a highly addictive substance. In addition, nicotine is also known as a toxic substance because it can have several adverse effects on health.
One of them, nicotine can increase blood pressure and also a surge of adrenaline. This condition can cause an increase in heart rate and risk of heart attack.
For now, there are not as many studies on the health risks of vaping as cigarettes. However, Blaha revealed that people who vape have exposed themselves to a variety of chemicals that are not fully understood.
“And maybe (the substances) aren’t safe either,” Blaha said.
Although nicotine is very addictive, it does not mean that smokers and vape users can not be separated from the bondage of cigarettes and vape. One of the most important key factors in efforts to quit smoking and vaping is determination or a strong will.
“However, it will be easier when (determination) is combined with some additional support,” said the National Health Service or NHS.
In smoking cessation programs, smokers can be assisted with nicotine replacement therapy and prescription drugs. Nicotine replacement therapy has various forms, ranging from patchsprays, chewing gum, and lozenges or throat lozenges.
Over time, the dose of nicotine replacement therapy will be reduced. That way, smokers will not be tormented by nicotine “withdrawal” symptoms that may occur as a result of quitting smoking.
2023-08-22 13:03:40
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