A new ban on disposable vapes has come into force across the UK, prohibiting the sale and supply of all single-use vaping products both in shops and online. Retailers caught breaking the law in England face a minimum fine of £200, with repeat offenders potentially facing up to two years in prison. Similar penalties apply in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
While the sale of disposable vapes is now illegal, owning them remains lawful. However, the NHS highlights the potential challenges for those trying to quit vaping, especially amid the new restrictions. They warn of five common withdrawal symptoms that can occur when stopping nicotine vaping.
The NHS advises caution: “You may experience withdrawal symptoms when you quit nicotine vapes. This might make you want to reach for a cigarette. You should only quit vaping if you are confident you can do it without smoking cigarettes.”
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Nicotine withdrawal affects everyone differently, but typical symptoms include irritability, cravings, headaches, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. These reactions occur because the body is adjusting to the absence of nicotine.
The NHS acknowledges that reducing or stopping vaping can be difficult. They encourage individuals to quit only when they are ready and emphasize gradual reduction methods to improve success. For example, users should check the nicotine strength in their e-liquids and slowly decrease the dose over time. If cravings increase, it might indicate the reduction was too rapid.
Another helpful strategy is to extend the interval between vaping sessions. If you usually vape every 20 minutes, try lengthening that time to 40 minutes to help lessen cravings progressively.
The NHS concludes with reassurance: “Quitting vaping can be tough, but taking it step by step can help you reach your goal.”