E-cigarettes

If you have an adverse reaction or safety concern about a nicotine-containing e-cigarette (also known as a vape) and/or e-liquid you should report this to our Yellow Card scheme. 

What is an e-cigarette and e-liquid?

E-cigarettes and accompanying e-liquids are nicotine containing vaping products. It is a device that heats up the liquid, so that the user inhales the nicotine as a vapour, instead of smoke. They are available to purchase for people over 18 years, however they are not recommended for people who do not currently smoke.   

Adverse reactions to e-cigarettes and e-liquids

An adverse reaction is when the resulting effect causes harm (this can be both physical or mental). 

Safety concerns related to e-cigarettes and e-liquids

• Adverse reactions could also be the result of defective or fake e-cigarettes or e-liquids (one that is not authentic). 

• A defective e-cigarette (and/or e-liquid) is a product that is not working properly or not to the manufacturer’s specifications. 

• A fake e-cigarette (and/or e-liquid) is a product that tries to pass off as a genuine authorised e-cigarette (and/or e-liquid). 

If the defective or maybe fake e-cigarette and/or e-liquid is causing an adverse reaction or is a safety concern report this to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. 

Why report side effects to the Yellow Card scheme?

Everyone has a different genetic makeup and therefore it is very difficult to predict whether an individual will experience a side effect. Whether you are a healthcare professional or a member of the public, you can help others by reporting adverse reactions which you or your patients experience to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. Reports help us gain a better understanding of e-cigarette and e-liquid interactions and safeguard patients whole through vigilant monitoring. 

Find out more about the Yellow Card scheme, including how to report.