In Australia, the vaping landscape has been subject to stringent scrutiny and regulatory changes, particularly regarding disposable vapes. Initially sold in retail stores as nicotine-free vaping flavors, many disposable vapes have been found to be illegal and unsafe. Here’s what Australians need to know about transitioning from illegal disposable vapes to prescription vapes, the regulated alternative.

The Problem with Disposable Vapes in Australia

Disposable vapes have surged in popularity across Australia due to their widespread availability and ease of use. However, many of these products are illegal. They often contain nicotine without proper labeling, violating Australian regulatory standards. Moreover, some disposable vapes have been tested by the TGA and found to contain ingredients banned under the Therapeutic Goods Order (TGO) 110, which are linked to serious vaping-related illnesses. This poses significant health risks to consumers who use these products unknowingly.

Government Response and Regulation

To combat the health risks associated with illegal disposable vapes and the growing nicotine dependency among users, the Australian Government has taken decisive action to stamp out the black market. Recognizing that a cohort of patients is now dependent on nicotine from these illegal products, the government has adjusted prescribing guidelines to allow doctors to prescribe legal, prescription-only vapes for the management of nicotine dependence. These regulated devices ensure suppliers meet minimum standards and accurately label ingredients, including nicotine content among other things.

As a Result of the Ban

As a result of the crackdown on illegal disposable vapes, you may find that these products have significantly increased in price or are becoming harder to obtain. This scarcity and price hike are due to intensified efforts by authorities to remove these harmful products from the market, reducing their availability and driving up costs for the remaining illegal stock. These changes further emphasize the need for a safer, regulated alternative.

Choosing the Right Prescription Vape and using Tabuu Pharmacy Filters

If you're an Australian considering the transition from illegal disposable vapes to prescription vapes or quitting smoking, it’s crucial to understand what to look for in consultation with your Healthcare Professional:

Type of Nicotine:

Disposable vapes: Disposables commonly use nicotine salts, which deliver nicotine more smoothly and are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. When transitioning to prescription vapes, opt for closed pod-based systems that also use nicotine salts. This ensures a similar experience to what you're accustomed to with disposables and will improve adherence to the medication and reduce the risk of relapse.

Quitting Smoking: People looking to quit smoking using prescription vapes should also start with nicotine salt closed pods as per guidance and recommendation of the RACGP. Nicotine salts are a closer experience to cigarettes and closed pods are easy and simple to use which will improve adherence to medication and reduce risk of relapse 

Tabuu pharmacy has created filters within the shop to assist you when reviewing products. For people that have limited knowledge select 'Beginner'. This will filter the products to closed pods containing nicotine salts. 

It is important to note that the decision should be made in consultation with your Healthcare Professional and only if they deem it clinically appropriate.

Nicotine Strength:

Disposable Vape: A study of over 100 disposable vapes conducted by the University of Wollongong found that 100% of tested disposable vapes contain nicotine concentrations ranging from 40-50mg/ml nicotine. This high concentration may be what your body is used to however, pod devices usually have a higher wattage output on the device. Therefore, starting with a strength in prescription vapes between 29-40mg/ml to ensure you satisfy your cravings again, minimizing your chance of relapse whilst reducing nicotine consumption.

Quitting Smoking: For people looking to quit smoking using prescription vapes a study by the University of Wollongong also suggests users start on nicotine salts at approximately 35mg/ml. Therefore, starting with a strength in prescription vapes between 29-40mg/ml to ensure you satisfy your cravings again, minimizing your chance of relapse whilst reducing nicotine consumption.

Tabuu pharmacy has created filters within the shop to assist you when reviewing products. Once you have selected 'Beginner' you can then select 'Strengths' and select all options between 29-40mg/ml to assist with available products

Reducing Nicotine Consumption Over Time

Once fully converted to prescription vapes, with the help of your Healthcare Professional you can start to reduce nicotine consumption. Gradually titrating to lower strengths supports your journey to eventual cessation. This step-by-step reduction helps manage nicotine dependency effectively and minimizes withdrawal symptoms, paving the way for a healthier, nicotine-free lifestyle.

Benefits of Prescription Vapes in Australia

Prescription vapes offer several advantages over their illegal counterparts:

- Regulation and Minimum Standards: Prescription vapes in Australia are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), ensuring they meet standards and accurately label their contents. This significantly reduces the risk of harmful substances found in illegal products.
- Medical Support: Transitioning with the guidance of an Australian healthcare provider allows for personalized advice and support. Doctors can help navigate the process of nicotine dependence and cessation, tailoring recommendations to individual needs.

Conclusion

Transitioning from illegal disposable vapes to prescription vapes or quitting smoking using prescription vapes represents a crucial step towards improved public health. By choosing regulated products that comply with health standards, Australians can prioritize their well-being while reducing the risks associated with unregulated vaping products. If you're currently using illegal disposable vapes, consider consulting with your healthcare provider to explore the possibility of transitioning to prescription vapes. This decision not only supports your health but also contributes to ongoing efforts to regulate and improve safety for all Australians.