Product Watch: Vaping marketed as ‘stress relief’

Some vape companies, such as UT, market their products as “stress relief.”

According to research by Truth Initiative, during the pandemic, 81% of young people who started vaping did so to try to lessen feelings of stress, anxiety or depression.

More than half of individuals who use e-cigarettes say they vape to cope.

“Vaping was something I would look forward to whenever I was stressed or overwhelmed,” said Lola, a young adult who vaped. “But the thing is, it wouldn’t make me feel less stressed for any amount of time.”

The dopamine released by the brain after vaping may give people a temporary sensation of relaxation. However, nicotine use can also increase cortisol, the primary “stress hormone,” and sustained vaping can lead to withdrawal and heightened anxiety.

Source: MiPod.com

Except, vape devices haven’t been tested in clinical trials to demonstrate stress relief.

“While many people vape to cope with stress, vape products have not been shown in clinical trials to provide long-term stress relief,” said UW-CTRI Director Dr. Hasmeena Kathuria.

“We know that nicotine is highly addictive and can increase heart rate and blood pressure, placing stress on the cardiovascular system. Vaping is associated with inflammation, oxidative stress and respiratory harm. Studies have also found higher rates of bronchitis, pneumonia and chronic cough among youth who vape. These findings do not support vaping as a healthy long-term solution for stress relief.”

According to a Truth Initiative survey, 47% of young people who quit vaping feel more in control than when they were vaping and 90% feel less stressed, anxious or depressed.

“Vaping was  increasing my stress levels,” said Julia, “and not helping at all when I thought it was.”

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