Smoking remains one of the leading preventable causes of disease and death in Australia. For many people trying to quit, vaping can be a helpful stepping stone, especially when traditional methods haven’t worked. But the landscape of vaping products in Australia is different from other countries, and it’s important to understand how to access and use them legally and safely.
What Is Vaping for Smoking Cessation?
Vaping involves inhaling a vapour created by an electronic device that heats a liquid (often called “e-liquid” or “vape juice”). For smoking cessation, these e-liquids may contain nicotine, the addictive substance found in tobacco. The goal is to reduce nicotine dependency over time while avoiding the harmful toxins produced by burning tobacco.
Vaping for smoking cessation is often used as a harm-reduction tool, offering smokers a less harmful alternative while they work toward quitting altogether.
Is It Legal to Vape Nicotine in Australia?
Yes, but there are strict regulations. As of 1 January 2024, nicotine vaping products are only legally available in Australia with a prescription.
This includes:
- Nicotine e-cigarettes
- Pre-filled pods or cartridges
- Disposable nicotine vapes
These products are considered therapeutic goods and are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
How Can You Access Vaping Products to Quit Smoking?
1. Get a Prescription
To legally access nicotine vaping products in Australia, you need a valid prescription from an authorised prescriber. If you’re needing a prescription, click here. Many GPs and telehealth providers are also now familiar with this process.
2. Choose a Pharmacy or authorised Supplier
Once you have a prescription, you can obtain nicotine vaping products from a pharmacy such as Dispense Direct. Submit your prescription online here and one of our team will be in contact with you to set up your account.
What Products Are Available?
Most smoking cessation vaping products come in these forms:
- Nicotine Replacement Vapes: Low to moderate strength (typically under 20 mg/mL), designed for tapering down.
- Closed System Vapes: Pre-filled pods or cartridges that are easy to use and dose.
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Open System Vapes: Refillable devices with more flexibility but require proper handling.
Products are only available in mint, menthol or tobacco flavours in Australia. Products usually come in a variety of strengths, helping tailor your quit plan to what works best for you.
How Vaping Helps People Quit
- Mimics the behavioural aspect of smoking
- Delivers nicotine in a controlled and less harmful way
- Helps manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms
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Provides a stepping stone to reduce and eventually quit nicotine altogether
According to recent studies, many Australians using nicotine vaping under medical guidance have successfully quit smoking, or significantly reduced their cigarette use.
Is Vaping Safe?
No form of nicotine use is completely risk-free. However, vaping is widely regarded as much less harmful than smoking traditional tobacco.
The key is to:
- Use vaping only as a quitting aid, not long-term
- Follow a clear cessation plan with your healthcare provider
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Use only regulated, prescription-based nicotine products
If you’ve struggled to quit smoking, vaping might be a viable next step, but it’s not something to start lightly or without guidance. Australia’s regulated model means you can access support from healthcare professionals and ensure the products you use are both safe and effective.
At Dispense Direct, we’re committed to supporting smoking cessation by offering regulated, prescription-based vaping products and resources that help Australians take control of their health.
Have more questions? Please don’t hesitate to contact our team at 1300 420 965 or send us an email at hello@dispensedirect.com.au, our team is here to help.