Jim McDonald
Smokers created vaping without help from the tobacco industry or anti-smoking crusaders, and I believe vapers have the right to continue innovating to help themselves. My goal is to provide clear, honest information about the challenges vaping faces from lawmakers, regulators, and brokers of disinformation. I’m a member of the CASAA board, but my opinions aren’t necessarily CASAA’s, and vice versa. You can find me on Twitter @whycherrywhy
Research from Johns Hopkins University shows that e-cigarette vapor contains some toxic metals, probably from the coils that heat the e-liquid. But a Greek cardiologist who is an expert on the topic is questioning the way they framed the results.
Russia may soon encourage smokers to switch to vaping as a public health measure. Industry and trade minister Denis Manturov told business publication Vedomosti that Russia may implement a differential taxation scheme for vaping and tobacco products.
For the first time, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may approve a pharmaceutical product based on a compound found in cannabis plants. Cannabidiol (CBD)-based Epidiolex, made by GW Pharmaceuticals, has completed promising Phase 3 clinical trials for treatment of epileptic seizure disorders Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes.
Public Health England is confirming its 2015 assessment that e-cigarettes are far safer than smoking. The government agency was the first respected public health organization to urge cigarette smokers to switch to vaping -- and to suggest that doctors recommend e-cigs to smoking patients. The new report assesses the evidence since the 2015 publication.
As of Feb. 1, it became illegal to possess or use e-cigarettes and other vaping products in Singapore, with fines as high as 2,000 Singapore dollars. Fines for sales or importation can be five times that high, with six months in jail also possible. Repeat offenders can get double those penalties.
Wrigley is suing Florida e-liquid manufacturer Get Wrecked Juices for infringing its trademarks for Skittles and Starburst candies.
The Pacific Legal Foundation has filed three lawsuits in federal courts challenging the FDA’s Deeming Rule that restricts sales of e-cigarettes.
Malaysian police and government pharmaceutical regulators raided hundreds of vape shops, seizing all nicotine-containing e-liquid.
A new report on e-cigarettes from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine says vaping can help smokers quit cigarettes.
The European Commission will not propose an EU-wide tax on e-cigarettes and other vapor products at this time, according to a report to member states.
