Abstract
IntroductionIn a secondary analysis of our published data demonstrating compensatory vaping behavior (increased puff number, puff duration, and device power) with e-cigarettes refilled with low versus high nicotine concentration e-liquid, here we examine 5-day time course over which compensatory behavior occurs under fixed and adjustable power settings.Aims and MethodsNineteen experienced vapers (37.90 ± 10.66 years, eight females) vaped ad libitum for 5 consecutive days under four counterbalanced conditions (ie, 20 days in total): (1) low nicotine (6 mg/mL)/fixed power (4.0 V/10 W); (2) low nicotine/adjustable power; (3) high nicotine (18 mg/mL)/fixed power; (4) high nicotine/adjustable power (at 1.6 Ohm). Puff number, puff duration, and power settings were recorded by the device. For each day, total daily puffing time was calculated by multiplying daily puff number by mean daily puff duration.ResultsA significant day × setting interaction revealed that whilst puffing compensation (daily puffing time) continued to increase over 5 days under fixed power, it remained stable when power settings were adjustable. Separate analysis for puff number and puff duration suggested that the puffing compensatory behavior was largely maintained via longer puff duration.ConclusionsUnder fixed power conditions (4.0 V/10 W), vapers appear to compensate for poor nicotine delivery by taking longer puffs and this compensatory puffing appears to be maintained over time.ImplicationsStudies in smokers suggest that when switching to lower nicotine levels, compensation for poorer nicotine delivery is transient. Our novel findings suggest that vapers show a different pattern of compensation which is influenced by both nicotine strength and device power settings. When power is fixed (4.0 V; 10 W), compensation (via more intensive puffing) appears prolonged, persisting up to 5 days. Under adjustable settings when power is increased, puffing patterns remain stable over time. Implications of such compensatory behaviors for product safety and user satisfaction need further exploration.
Highlights
In a secondary analysis of our published data demonstrating compensatory vaping behavior with e-cigarettes refilled with low versus high nicotine concentration e-liquid, here we examine 5-day time course over which compensatory behavior occurs under fixed and adjustable power settings
We analyzed the time course of compensatory behavior under fixed and adjustable power settings in order to explore whether compensation is transient or persists over 5 consecutive days
We show that there is a clear distinction in compensatory behavior with greater total puffing time in the fixed compared with the adjustable setting condition
Summary
In a secondary analysis of our published data demonstrating compensatory vaping behavior (increased puff number, puff duration, and device power) with e-cigarettes refilled with low versus high nicotine concentration e-liquid, here we examine 5-day time course over which compensatory behavior occurs under fixed and adjustable power settings. Conclusions: Under fixed power conditions (4.0 V/10 W), vapers appear to compensate for poor nicotine delivery by taking longer puffs and this compensatory puffing appears to be maintained over time. In conditions where smokers use very low nicotine or nonnicotine cigarettes, they adjust their puffing behavior to compensate for this reduction to maintain stable blood nicotine levels.. Smokers who had been given cigarettes with reduced nicotine content took longer and deeper puffs, and increased the number of puffs taken and decreased the time in between puffs.. Smokers who had been given cigarettes with reduced nicotine content took longer and deeper puffs, and increased the number of puffs taken and decreased the time in between puffs.1 This compensatory behavior is linked to a reduction in satisfaction and can be associated with greater toxicant exposure. Larger and more recent trial evidence by Donny et al. suggests that negative effects (ie, compensatory puffing) can be lessened if nicotine is adequately reduced over a longer timeframe than is typically used in laboratory studies
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
