Drug Prevention
Vaping and Nicotine: What Parents and Educators Should Know
E-cigarette use among young people, why nicotine is a concern for the developing brain, and how to support quitting.
E-cigarettes became the most commonly used nicotine product among teenagers in the late 2010s. Use has declined from its peak but remains common, and many young users show signs of dependence.
Why nicotine matters for teens
- Nicotine is highly addictive, and adolescents can become dependent faster than adults.
- Many vapes deliver high nicotine doses; some disposable products contain as much as several packs of cigarettes.
- Nicotine exposure during adolescence can affect attention, learning and mood.
- Teens who vape are more likely to start smoking cigarettes.
Signs of dependence
Irritability or anxiety when unable to vape, vaping soon after waking, trouble concentrating, and failed attempts to cut down.
Helping a young person quit
- Approach with curiosity rather than anger. Ask what they like about vaping and what they don't.
- Free, text-based programs designed for teens and young adults, such as "This is Quitting" from Truth Initiative, have shown good results in trials.
- Talk to a pediatrician. For older teens with heavy dependence, nicotine replacement may be considered under medical guidance.
- Expect slips. Most people need several attempts.
Prevention at school and in the community
Raising the minimum sales age to 21, restricting flavored products, enforcing retail laws and media campaigns that expose industry marketing have all contributed to declines in youth vaping.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.
