June 12, 2013

expert reaction to MHRA announcement on regulation of electronic cigarettes

The MHRA announced that all nicotine-containing products (NCPs), such as electronic cigarettes, will be regulated as medicines.

Prof Marcus Munafo, Professor of Biological Psychology, expert in genetic and cognitive influences on addictive behaviour, University of Bristol & UK Centre for Tobacco Control Studies, said:

“Nicotine is the principal addictive constituent in tobacco, but not the cause of the harms associated with tobacco use. If people could be encouraged to use cleaner nicotine products rather than tobacco there would be substantial health benefits. Anything that ensures the quality and effectiveness of nicotine containing products is a positive step in this direction.”

Sarah Woolnough, Cancer Research UK’s executive director of policy and information, said:

“We’re pleased e-cigarettes will be regulated in a similar way to other nicotine-containing products such as gums and patches. We’re determined to reduce deaths from smoking-related cancers and there’s a lot of potential for e-cigarettes to help reduce the devastating impact of smoking which kills half its long term users. But there are many unanswered questions about these products, so it’s crucial that they’re properly explored to understand their benefits and risks.

“MRHA licensing is important to help ensure product safety, restrict marketing to children and monitor the health impacts of long-term exposure to nicotine use.

“We’d like e-cigarettes to be licensed as quickly as possible but we’re not calling for a ban on unlicensed products.  Smokers should be allowed to use them in the meantime if this helps them smoke fewer cigarettes.”