OTTAWA, Apr 1, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Canadians are being advised by
government officials not to purchase or use electronic smoking products.
Officials at Heath Canada said electronic cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos and
pipes -- as well as cartridges of nicotine solutions and related products --
may pose health risks and have not been fully evaluated for safety, quality and
efficacy.
"The sale of these health products is currently not compliant with the Food and
Drugs Act since no electronic smoking products have been granted a market
authorization in Canada," a statement by Health Canada said.
"Although these electronic smoking products may be marketed as a safer
alternative to conventional tobacco products and, in some cases, as an aid to
quitting smoking, electronic smoking products may pose risks such as nicotine
poisoning and addiction."
In recent months, a number of electronic cigarettes, cigars and pipes as well as
cartridges of nicotine solutions and related products have been marketed in
Canada and through the Internet.
Most of these products are shaped and look like their conventional counterparts
and they produce a vapor that resembles smoke and a glow that resembles the tip
of a cigarette.
The battery-powered delivery system vaporizes and delivers a liquid chemical
mixture that may be composed of various amounts of nicotine, propylene glycol
and other chemicals, Health Canada said.
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2009 by United Press International