Combinations of electronic nicotine delivery system device and liquid characteristics among U.S. adults.

INTRODUCTION

The combination of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) device and liquid characteristics affect user nicotine and toxicant exposure, however population-level national survey studies have not reported device and liquid features jointly nor in detail. We examined combinations of characteristics of devices and liquids used by adult ENDS users.

METHODS

U.S. adults (21+) using ENDS at least five days/week (n = 1,179) completed an online survey in 2020 and uploaded photos of their most used device and liquid. Device/liquid combinations were analyzed to determine and describe the most common pairings. Data were weighted to the U.S. population of adult daily ENDS users.

RESULTS

Five device/liquid combinations accounted for 87 % of those reported. The most prevalent combination, reported by 36.2 %, was re-useable devices with adjustable settings and a tank refilled with a free-base nicotine liquid with a median nicotine concentration of 5.2 mg/mL. The second most frequent combination - re-usable devices with no adjustable settings and a nicotine salt liquid in a disposable pod or cartridge - was reported by 22.8 % and the median nicotine concentration was 49.4 mg/mL. Wattage, voltage and resistance varied across device/liquid combination. Overall, 66.5 % refilled their device's tank or pod and 64.2 % had the ability to manipulate device characteristics (power, airflow, and/or coil).

CONCLUSIONS

Analyzing ENDS device/liquid combinations rather than each separately can allow researchers to better evaluate relationships between use and key outcomes, such as quitting cigarettes and abuse liability. Additional research may reveal whether certain combinations are more effective at helping smokers quit and which device/liquid combinations should remain on the market.