Vaping is a common way that people use nicotine. However, many drugs can be vaped. Besides nicotine, people most commonly vape cannabis products, but other drugs can also be vaped in liquid form.
You may want to consider doing these things if you decide to vape drugs:
Throw away disposable vapes or cartridges when used up.
These devices aren’t designed to be re-used or tampered with. Attempting to re-fill single use cartridges can be dangerous, as batteries can explode. ‘Dry puffing’ or trying to inhale a vape once it is used up can also release dangerous fumes. Dispose of used vapes and carts responsibly.
Maintain open-pod vaping devices by cleaning them and replacing coils. Vaping with burnt coils can cause an unpleasant taste and may be more harmful for you, so it is best to avoid this.
Use the same amount you would smoking, not more.
Vaping delivers a similar amount of a drug to your body as smoking does. Start with the same amount you would usually smoke and wait for a while before using more. When vaping unregulated products (such as illegal drugs) you don’t know the actual ingredients or concentration, so it is a good idea to take it slow and see how you feel before deciding whether to take more.
Look after your mouth.
Like smoking, vaping can cause your mouth and throat to become dry and sore. Drink lots of water between vaping sessions and brush your teeth regularly. If your lips are chapped or dry, apply lip balm to prevent cracks, burns and sores.
Avoid sharing vapes.
Germs can be easily spread from sharing vapes. If someone has cuts, burns, or sores on their lips or mouth, blood-borne diseases can also be passed through sharing. If you have to share, thoroughly clean off the mouthpiece between uses; this won’t stop all germs from getting through, but it can reduce the risk.
Don’t swallow vape liquid.
Vape liquid often contains ingredients that can be harmful if swallowed. Vape liquid containing nicotine is very dangerous, as nicotine is a poison when swallowed. Sometimes, a small amount of liquid may leak into your mouth when vaping. If this happens, rinse your mouth with a small amount of water. If a large amount of vape liquid is swallowed, contact the National Poisons Centre.