E-cigarettes and the law in Australia.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Australian laws covering electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are complex and vary between jurisdictions. The supply of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes in Australia is illegal. Possession or use of nicotine in e-cigarettes without approval is also illegal and the sale of non-nicotine e-cigarettes is illegal in some states. Despite the current legal barriers, the use of e-cigarettes by Australian smokers has increased over recent years. OBJECTIVE: This article summarises these laws, recent cases involving e-cigarettes and what is known about their safety and efficacy as cessation aids. DISCUSSION: Australian medical practitioners are likely to be asked about e-cigarettes by patie..