This blog is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended to promote or advertise any therapeutic good
Some people hesitate to quit smoking because they are concerned about potential weight gain. Nicotine, which is found in tobacco and nicotine vaping products, can suppress appetite in some individuals.
However, using nicotine as a strategy for weight management is not considered safe or appropriate.
How Nicotine Affects Appetite
Nicotine interacts with the central nervous system and can influence appetite, satiety signals and metabolic rate.
Research suggests nicotine may:
These effects can contribute to short-term weight changes.
It is common for people who stop using nicotine to experience temporary changes in appetite and weight. However, weight responses vary between individuals.
Weight Loss Is Not a Therapeutic Use
Weight loss or appetite suppression from nicotine exposure is considered a side effect- not a medically approved use.
Nicotine vaping products are regulated in Australia as prescription-only therapeutic goods and are not approved for weight management.
Using nicotine for weight control carries health risks and is not recommended.
Concerns for Adolescents
Public health experts have raised concerns about messaging that links vaping with weight control, particularly among adolescents.
There is limited evidence regarding the long-term impact of vaping on weight. Some researchers caution that unproven claims about weight control may encourage uptake among young people or individuals with body image concerns.
Nicotine exposure during adolescence is associated with risks to brain development.
Final Thoughts
While nicotine may influence appetite in some people, vaping should not be used as a method for weight loss.
Healthy weight management strategies typically involve balanced nutrition, physical activity and appropriate medical guidance. Individuals concerned about weight changes should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Individuals considering smoking cessation should discuss evidence-based options with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate approach for their circumstances.
Disclaimer
Nicotine vaping products are prescription-only medicines in Australia and are regulated therapeutic goods. They are not approved as first-line smoking cessation therapies.
They are not approved for weight management. Vaping is not risk-free, and evidence regarding long-term health effects continues to evolve.
Information provided here is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice.
DISCLAIMER: There are a number of ways to quit smoking. We have a range of tools that may help with smoking cessation such as nicotine patches, gums and vaping products. Vaping products, used as second-line tools may be useful for those who have not successfully quit smoking using traditional methods.
It’s important to acknowledge there’s limited available evidence on the efficacy, safety or long-term health effects of nicotine vaping products. There are potential side effects associated with vaping. Long-term vaping and dual-use (smoking and vaping concurrently) is not recommended and should be avoided. Regular review and monitoring by your regular GP is advised along your smoking cessation journey.
Research on smoking cessation methods, including prescription nicotine vaping products, continues to expand as new evidence emerges.
There are several evidence-based approaches available to support smoking cessation, including nicotine replacement therapy and behavioural support.
Research into the health effects of vaping is ongoing, with current evidence highlighting both known risks and areas where long-term outcomes remain uncertain.
Research into the side effects of vaping is ongoing, with reported symptoms varying between individuals and long-term health effects still under investigation.
First Nations Acknowledgement
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.
Nicotine is addictive, and the long term-risks of vaping are unknown. Complete abstinence from smoking and vaping is the safest for your health. Currently no nicotine vaping products have been approved by the TGA, and the safety of these products has not been determined. Long-term vaping and dual-use (smoking and vaping concurrently) must be avoided. Vaped nicotine products are only recommended for individuals that have tried but failed to quit smoking using approved first line smoking cessation therapies.Must be over 18 years old, not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Regular review and monitoring by your regular GP is advised along your smoking cessation journey
*To apply for your nicotine vape prescription please complete this FREE virtual consultation. If eligible, you will be requested to make a $20 script payment. This $20 fee will be credited towards your first purchase with Help Me Stop.
ET Pharmaceuticals trading as Help Me Stop is the pharmacy marketing group for pharmacy ET Research Pty Ltd trading as Precision Pharmacy.
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