Quitting smoking can be daunting, and while many smokers succeed with first-line treatments like nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or prescription medications, others find these methods insufficient. Prescription vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, has emerged as a second-line treatment for smoking cessation, providing an alternative for those who need additional support. This guide offers an overview for beginners considering prescription vaping to quit smoking, focusing on the Australian context where nicotine vaping products are available by prescription.

Understanding Prescription Vaping as a Second Line Treatment

Prescription vaping as a second-line treatment means it is considered after first-line treatments (like NRT or medications) have failed or are not suitable. E-cigarettes deliver nicotine through vapor rather than smoke, reducing exposure to the harmful chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. This harm reduction approach can make it easier for smokers to transition away from combustible tobacco.

Obtaining a Prescription for Vaping

In Australia, nicotine vaping products can only be legally accessed with a prescription from a doctor. It's important to note that:

- Doctors are not required to prescribe nicotine vaping products but may do so if they deem it clinically appropriate based on the patient’s smoking history and previous quit attempts.
- The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) recommends that doctors prescribe closed pod systems, which limits the users ability to mix and adjust the e-liquid and vaping flavours.

Finding a Pharmacy to Dispense Prescription Nicotine Vaping Products

Once you have a prescription, you need to find a pharmacy that sells nicotine vaping products. Given that this is a relatively new category, pharmacies that stock these products can be hard to find and may only have limited options. Tabuu Pharmacy offers a wide range of options to support patients on their journey.

Selecting the Right Vaping Product
To make the process easier for people new to prescription vaping, Tabuu Pharmacy has created a filter that allows users to find products specifically for beginners. Beginners are generally advised to start with:

- Closed Pod Systems: These are easy to use, with pre-filled cartridges, reducing the complexity of refilling and maintenance.
- Vaping Flavors: Selecting a vape flavor appropriate to you can make the transition from smoking to prescription vaping more successful. The TGA regulates flavors to tobacco, mint, or unflavored options.

Selecting the Type of Prescription Nicotine You Will Use

Prescription vaping nicotine comes in two types: freebase nicotine and nicotine salts. Most closed pod systems use nicotine salts, which should be used as a benchmark for selecting strength and the amount of pods you will need.

Selecting the Right Nicotine Strength

Doctors may prescribe a specific nicotine strength or a strength range based on their clinical decision. To choose an appropriate strength, consider how many cigarettes you currently smoke per day. The TGA publishes guidelines from the University of Wollongong recommending starting at around 35mg/ml for nicotine salts and around 6mg/ml for freebase nicotine​​. Ensuring you satisfy your cravings is crucial for adherence and reducing the chance of relapse.

How Many Nicotine Vaping Pods You Will Need

Determining how many pods you will need depends on factors such as how many cigarettes you currently smoke, your inhalation technique, and the nicotine strength you selected. The University of Wollongong study on the TGA website recommends no more than a 2ml pod per day. Starting with a smaller order to understand your usage and ensuring you can reorder medication anytime through Tabuu Pharmacy is advisable. Tabuu pharmacy monitors orders to ensure patients do not exceed their prescribed amount.

Stepping Down Consumption and Nicotine Levels

One of the benefits of prescription vaping is the ability to control and gradually reduce your nicotine intake over time. Start with a nicotine strength that helps manage your cravings and gradually step down to lower levels. This process can help reduce dependence on nicotine without severe withdrawal symptoms or cravings.

Potential Side Effects
New vapers may experience some side effects such as:

- Dry Mouth and Throat: Staying hydrated can help mitigate these symptoms.
- Coughing: Adjusting your inhalation technique or switching to a different e-liquid can help reduce coughing.

Avoid Dual Usage

To maximize the benefits of switching to prescription vaping, it’s important to avoid dual use (using both cigarettes and e-cigarettes). Commit to fully replacing smoking with prescription vaping to significantly reduce harm. Once you have stopped, you can begin to start titrating your usage.

Conclusion

Vaping can be an effective second-line treatment for smoking cessation, especially for those who have struggled with traditional methods. By mimicking the smoking experience through behavioral factors as well as a faster nicotine absorption rate, vaping offers a viable alternative for reducing harm and eventually quitting nicotine altogether.

Tabuu Pharmacy is an excellent resource for beginners, connecting you with specialized doctors and helping you find the right products to start your journey. Always consult your healthcare provider or the Tabuu Support Team and use prescription vaping as part of a comprehensive quit plan to improve your chances of success.