Introduction – Why the Question Matters
The rapid rise of vaping over the past decade has transformed how people consume nicotine, cannabinoids, and, increasingly, a variety of other pharmacologically active substances. For many, a sleek, discreet “e‑cig” appears to be a harmless alternative to smoking, but the truth is far more complex. Understanding exactly what chemicals and drugs are present in the vapor that users inhale is essential for public‑health officials, clinicians, regulators, and anyone who is curious about the risks versus the perceived benefits.
This article provides a systematic, science‑based breakdown of the substances that can be found in modern vape products. It moves beyond the simple answer “nicotine” and explores the full spectrum of legally marketed, prescription, and illicit drugs that have been, or can be, aerosolized. The discussion also covers non‑drug additives—solvents, flavorings, and processing agents—that, while not drugs per se, influence the delivery, potency, and safety of the inhaled aerosol. Throughout, we reference the latest peer‑reviewed research, toxicology data, and regulatory guidance while maintaining a narrative that is accessible to both lay readers and professionals.
Key take‑away: Vapes are not a monolithic product class. The “drug” content can range from regulated nicotine salts to unregulated synthetic cannabinoids, from therapeutic CBD isolates to illicit stimulants. Each category brings its own pharmacology, health implications, and legal status.
1. The Anatomy of a Vape – From Liquid to Aerosol
Before dissecting the drug component, it helps to understand the basic architecture of a vape device, because design influences what can be aerosolized and how efficiently.
| Component | Primary Function | Typical Materials | Relevance to Drug Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery / Power Source | Supplies electrical energy | Lithium‑ion cells | Determines heating temperature, which affects volatilization of different compounds |
| Atomizer / Coil | Converts liquid into aerosol via rapid heating | Kanthal, nickel, stainless steel, ceramic | Different coil materials have distinct thermal properties influencing thermal degradation of drugs |
| Wick | Transports liquid to the coil via capillary action | Cotton, silica, ceramic mesh | Wick composition can interact with solvents, affecting condensation and aerosol composition |
| Tank / Cartridge | Holds the e‑liquid (or pre‑filled pod) | Glass, PTFE, polycarbonate, stainless steel | Material compatibility influences leaching of plasticizers or metals into the aerosol |
| Mouthpiece | Directs vapor to the user | ABS plastic, silicone, metal | Can be a source of additional particulates (e.g., plastic debris) |
Most modern devices operate in the 3–100 W power range. Lower‑power “pod” systems typically heat at ≤15 W, preserving thermally labile molecules (e.g., nicotine salts). Higher‑power “sub‑ohm” rigs can reach >80 W, producing hotter aerosols that may decompose certain cannabinoids or create new toxic by‑products.
2. The Core Drug Categories Found in Vapes
2.1 Nicotine – The Classic Vaping Substance
2.1.1 Free‑base Nicotine vs. Nicotine Salts
- Free‑base nicotine is the pure, volatile form found in most early e‑cigs. It delivers a relatively harsh throat hit at concentrations above 12 mg ml⁻¹.
- Nicotine salts combine nicotine with an acid (commonly benzoic, levulinic, or lactic acid) to lower the pH, making the aerosol smoother and permitting higher nicotine concentrations (up to 50 mg ml⁻¹).
Pharmacology – Nicotine acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the brain, producing dopamine release and reinforcing addiction pathways.
Regulatory status – In Australia, nicotine e‑liquids are classified as “unapproved therapeutic goods” unless used under a prescription (e.g., nicotine‑replacement therapy). However, many consumers import nicotine‑containing liquids for personal use despite the legal gray zone.
2.1.2 Minor Alkaloids Occasionally Present
Though nicotine dominates, trace amounts of nornicotine, anabasine, and myosmine—other tobacco alkaloids—can be detected in low‑quality or improperly refined extracts. Their pharmacological profiles are weak but may contribute to overall toxicity.
2.2 Cannabinoids – From Therapeutic to Illicit
2.2.1 Δ⁹‑Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
THC is the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis. Vaporizing THC oil or distillate yields rapid onset (seconds to minutes) and high bioavailability (≈30 % vs. ≈10 % for oral ingestion).
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Forms in vapes:
- THC distillate (purity > 90 %) dissolved in propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) or mixed with terpenes.
- THC cartridges using medium‑chain triglycerides (MCT) as carrier oil (e.g., “Vape Oil” in the US market).
- THC‑infused flower (dry‑herb vaporizers) – not a liquid but still part of the wider vaping ecosystem.
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Health considerations – THC inhalation can cause acute anxiety, tachycardia, and, in rare cases, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. Chronic use is linked to respiratory irritation, especially when vitamin E acetate is present (see Section 3.4).
2.2.2 Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD is non‑psychoactive and is marketed for purported anxiolytic, anti‑inflammatory, and seizure‑modulating effects.
- Typical vape formats: CBD isolate dissolved in PG/VG, broad‑spectrum extracts, or full‑spectrum hemp oil.
- Dose variability – Labeled concentrations may be inaccurate; analytical studies have found up to a 40 % deviation between claimed and measured CBD levels.
- Safety note – CBD itself appears to have a favorable safety profile, but when mixed with propylene glycol it can generate carbonyl compounds at high temperatures.
2.2.3 Synthetic Cannabinoids (e.g., “Spice,” “K2”)
Synthetic cannabinoids are laboratory‑synthesized compounds that act as high‑potency agonists at CB1 receptors. Unlike natural THC (partial agonist), many synthetics are full agonists, yielding dramatically stronger effects.
- Common scaffolds: JWH‑018, AM‑2201, XLR‑11, PB‑22, UR‑144.
- Vape delivery – Frequently sold as “herbal incense” or “liquid” for e‑cig cartridges; the liquid often contains these compounds dissolved in PG/VG.
- Toxicology – Cases of acute kidney injury, seizures, and cardiovascular collapse have been reported. Rapid metabolism produces active metabolites that may be more nephrotoxic than the parent compound.
2.2.4 Other Cannabinoid Analogs
Emerging cannabinoids such as Δ⁸‑THC, Δ⁹‑THCV, and CBC (cannabichromene) have entered the market, often marketed as “legal high” alternatives. Their pharmacology is partially understood, but they are generally less potent than Δ⁹‑THC and may still pose respiratory risks when aerosolized.
2.3 Prescription and Off‑Label Medications
2.3.1 Cough Suppressants (e.g., Dextromethorphan)
Dextromethorphan (DXM) is an NMDA‑receptor antagonist used to suppress cough. It has become popular in “vape‑trick” cultures because it produces dissociative effects at high doses.
- Formulation – Powdered dextromethorphan mixed into a PG/VG base; often sold in “research chemicals” packets.
- Risks – Dose‑dependent neurotoxicity, serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs, and potential for psychosis.
2.3.2 Benzodiazepines (e.g., Alprazolam)
Though rare, certain illicit vape preparations contain powdered benzodiazepines dissolved in e‑liquids for rapid anxiolysis. The high bioavailability via inhalation can result in sudden, profound sedation.
- Significant concern – Overdose risk is amplified because users may underestimate the rapid onset compared with oral ingestion.
2.3.3 Opioids (e.g., Fentanyl, Oxycodone)
Recent forensic reports have identified trace amounts of fentanyl or synthetic opioid analogs in counterfeit cartridges, often mixed with THC or nicotine liquids to potentiate euphoria. Even microgram quantities can be lethal due to the high pulmonary absorption.
- Public‑health alert – In 2022–2024, multiple Australian and US poison‑control centers documented life‑threatening respiratory depression linked to “fentanyl‑laced” vapes.
2.3.4 Stimulants (e.g., Methamphetamine, Cocaine)
Vaping of powdered stimulants is technically feasible but presents significant practical challenges (e.g., poor solubility in PG/VG). However, some “DIY” users dissolve cocaine hydrochloride in propylene glycol and aerosolize it, achieving rapid systemic absorption. The practice is exceedingly dangerous due to unpredictable dosing and the potential for airway irritation.
2.4 Illicit “Club” Drugs and Emerging NPS
2.4.1 Ketamine
Ketamine, an NMDA antagonist with dissociative anesthetic properties, has been reported in “vape‑pens” marketed as “research chemicals.” Because ketamine is typically water‑soluble, it is sometimes mixed with propylene glycol base for vaporization.
- Risk profile – Acute hypertension, bladder toxicity, and dependency with chronic use.
2.4.2 Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD)
While LSD’s stability in heat is low, anecdotal reports of “vaped LSD” (often in a gelatinous “sheet” format) exist. The limited data suggest that vaporizing LSD leads to rapid degradation, producing inactive by‑products rather than delivering psychoactive effects. Nonetheless, the presence of unknown degradation products may pose unknown toxicity.
3. Non‑Drug Additives – “Hidden” Hazards
Even when the primary drug component is well‑characterized (e.g., nicotine, THC), the ancillary substances that facilitate aerosol formation can have profound health implications.
3.1 Solvents: Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
| Property | PG | VG |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling point | 188 °C | 290 °C |
| Viscosity | Low – facilitates wicking | High – produces dense vapor |
| Common concerns | Can generate formaldehyde and acetaldehyde at high temps; may cause irritation in sensitive individuals | Hygroscopic (attracts moisture) – can promote microbial growth if not stored properly |
Thermal decomposition – Studies using a controlled‑temperature vaping apparatus have shown that when PG is heated above 200 °C, the emission of carbonyls (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein) increases sharply, mirroring the toxic profile of traditional cigarette smoke.
3.2 Flavor Chemicals
Hundreds of flavor additives are GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) when ingested but have limited inhalation safety data.
- Diacetyl & 2,3‑pentanedione – “Butter” flavors, linked historically to bronchiolitis obliterans (“popcorn lung”) in industrial settings. Aerosol studies indicate that diacetyl concentrations in flavored vapes can range from non‑detectable to > 10 µg per puff, depending on the brand.
- Cinnamaldehyde – Gives cinnamon flavor; in vitro studies show it can impair ciliary beat frequency at concentrations > 2 mg ml⁻¹.
- Menthol – Provides cooling sensation; may reduce perceived harshness, potentially facilitating deeper inhalation of toxicants.
3.3 Thickening Agents & Carrier Oils
- Vitamin E Acetate (VEA) – Initially incorporated as a cutting agent for THC oils to increase viscosity. The outbreak of EVALI (e‑cigarette or vaping product use‑associated lung injury) in 2019 was directly linked to VEA inhalation, which forms opaque lipid‑laden droplets that impair alveolar clearance.
- Medium‑Chain Triglycerides (MCT) – Frequently used in THC cartridges. While generally recognized as safe for ingestion, inhalation of aerosolized MCT can produce lipid‑laden macrophages and contribute to lipo‑pneumonia.
3.4 Metal and Ceramic Leachates
Coils composed of nickel, chromium, or stainless steel can release trace metal particles when heated to high temperatures. Analytical mass‑spectrometry of vapor samples reveals measurable levels of nickel, chromium, lead, and tin, especially in “dry‑puff” scenarios where the wicking material is insufficiently saturated.
4. Analytical Methods – How Researchers Detect Drugs in Vapes
To answer “What drugs are in vapes?” we must rely on robust analytical chemistry. The most common techniques include:
- Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC‑MS) – Excellent for volatile and semi‑volatile compounds (nicotine, terpenes, cannabinoids after derivatization).
- Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC‑MS/MS) – Preferred for non‑volatile, thermally labile substances (synthetic cannabinoids, pharmaceuticals).
- Fourier‑Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT‑IR) – Rapid screening for functional groups, useful for detecting VEA.
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP‑MS) – Quantifies trace metals released from coils.
- High‑Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HRMS) – Enables untargeted screening for novel psychoactive substances (NPS) that may be present in “designer” cartridges.
A typical investigative workflow:
- Sample acquisition (sealed cartridge, liquid, or aerosol).
- Extraction: PG/VG matrix is often diluted with methanol or acetonitrile, sometimes employing solid‑phase extraction (SPE) to concentrate analytes.
- Calibration: Standard curves using certified reference materials for nicotine, THC, CBD, and known synthetic cannabinoids.
- Data interpretation: Quantitative results are compared against regulatory limits (e.g., nicotine ≤ 20 mg ml⁻¹ in EU‑type products) and toxicological thresholds (e.g., VEA > 5 µg per puff is considered hazardous).
5. Global Regulatory Landscape – What Is Legal, What Isn’t
5.1 Australia
- Nicotine – Classified as a Schedule 4 prescription‑only substance when sold in e‑liquids. However, nicotine‑free e‑liquids are legal and sold widely.
- THC & cannabis‑derived cannabinoids – Only legal for medical use under strict Prescription Drug Authority (PDA) approvals. Recreational THC vaping is illegal.
- Synthetic cannabinoids – Many are listed under the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons (SUSMP) as Schedule 9 (prohibited). Importation for personal use is a customs offense.
5.2 United States
- FDA – Regulates e‑cigarettes as Tobacco Products; nicotine concentration must be disclosed, and flavored nicotine pods targeting youth are banned (except for menthol).
- DEA – Lists many synthetic cannabinoids and certain opioid analogs as Schedule I or II substances; possession or distribution is a federal crime.
- State Variations – Some states have additional restrictions on flavored vaping products, and several (e.g., Colorado, Washington) have enacted bans on nicotine‑free “vape‑only” flavored liquids to curb youth uptake.
5.3 European Union
- TPD (Tobacco Products Directive) 2014/40/EU – Limits nicotine e‑liquids to 20 mg ml⁻¹, caps tank size at 10 ml, and mandates child‑proof packaging.
- Cannabinoid Policy – THC products remain illegal in most EU states, but CBD with ≤ 0.2 % THC is permissible if derived from industrial hemp.
6. Health Impact Synthesis – From Acute Effects to Long‑Term Risks
Below is a concise, evidence‑based table summarizing the most prominent health concerns for each drug class when vaporized.
| Drug Class | Primary Acute Effects | Potential Chronic Effects | Key Toxicological Markers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicotine | Increased heart rate, BP, nausea, dizziness; strong reinforcement leading to dependence. | Cardiovascular disease, hypertension, dyslipidemia; possible contribution to atherosclerosis. | Cotinine levels ≥ 300 ng ml⁻¹ in plasma indicate regular use. |
| THC | Euphoria, altered perception, tachycardia, conjunctival injection. | Respiratory symptoms (cough, wheeze), potential for cannabis use disorder; impact on adolescent brain development. | Δ⁹‑THC metabolites (11‑OH‑THC) in urine. |
| CBD | Generally minimal; occasional mild sedation, dry mouth. | Limited data; some reports of liver enzyme elevation when combined with other hepatotoxic drugs. | CBD plasma concentration; ALT/AST monitoring. |
| Synthetic Cannabinoids | Severe agitation, seizures, psychosis, hypertension, tachyarrhythmia. | Persistent renal impairment, neurocognitive deficits, possible long‑term psychotic risk. | Synthetic cannabinoid metabolites (e.g., JWH‑018‑COOH) in urine. |
| Opioids (Fentanyl, Oxycodone) | Profound respiratory depression, pinpoint pupils, euphoria. | Dependence, overdose death risk, chronic constipation, hormonal dysregulation. | Fentanyl plasma > 0.2 ng ml⁻¹ = risk zone. |
| Stimulants (Cocaine, Meth) | Elevated mood, increased motor activity, tachycardia, hyperthermia. | Cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, neurovascular damage, severe dental disease (“meth mouth”). | Cocaine benzoylecgonine levels in urine. |
| Prescription CNS Depressants (Benzodiazepines) | Sedation, ataxia, respiratory slowing. | Cognitive impairment, dependence, withdrawal seizures. | Plasma diazepam > 200 ng ml⁻¹ signals heavy use. |
| Dextromethorphan | Dissociative state, euphoria, impaired coordination. | Neurotoxicity at high doses, serotonin syndrome when combined with serotonergic agents. | DXM and its metabolite dextrorphan in serum. |
| Ketamine | Dissociation, hallucinations, analgesia. | Urinary tract pathology, hepatic fibrosis, cognitive deficits. | Urine ketamine > 150 ng ml⁻¹. |
Note: The above thresholds are illustrative and derived from peer‑reviewed toxicology literature; individual susceptibility varies considerably.
7. Practical Guidance – How to Identify What’s Inside a Vape
- Check the packaging – Legitimate products list active ingredients, nicotine concentration, batch number, and ISO/TGA compliance statements.
- Look for third‑party lab certificates – Reputable retailers (including IGET & ALIBARBAR stores) provide COA (Certificate of Analysis) PDFs that detail cannabinoid profile, nicotine content, and contaminant screening.
- Inspect the physical cartridge – Authentic cartridges usually have tamper‑evident seals and a barcode. Counterfeit “pods” often lack serial numbers or feature sloppy printing.
- Use a reagent test kit – Simple colorimetric tests (e.g., Marquis, Mecke) can give a preliminary indication of the presence of cannabinoids or certain synthetic drugs.
- Avoid “DIY” mixtures unless you have verified chemistry knowledge. Homemade concoctions bypass safety controls and can create harmful by‑products (e.g., formaldehyde from overheating PG).
8. The Role of Online Vape Retailers – A Double‑Edged Sword
Retail platforms such as IGET & ALIBARBAR VAPE Australia contribute significantly to market transparency by:
- Providing COAs – Their emphasis on ISO‑certified quality control ensures that each batch of nicotine or THC liquid meets defined purity standards.
- Educating consumers – Detailed product pages that explain nicotine salt formulations, device compatibility, and recommended power settings reduce the likelihood of “dry‑puff” incidents that increase toxicant formation.
- Fast, national logistics – By operating distribution hubs across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, they decrease the reliance on black‑market imports where unregulated products are more prevalent.
Nevertheless, any retailer that offers “disposable vapes” or pre‑filled cartridges without rigorous third‑party testing runs the risk of inadvertently supplying liquids contaminated with VEA, heavy metals, or illicit additives. Consumers should therefore prioritize stores that openly publish analytical data and comply with TGA/VIC health regulations.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Rapid Answers
Q1. Can a nicotine‑free vape still be harmful?
Yes. Even without nicotine, the aerosol contains PG/VG, flavoring chemicals, and possible thermal degradation products (formaldehyde, acrolein). Chronic inhalation can irritate the airways and contribute to oxidative stress.
Q2. Is vaping THC safer than smoking it?
Vaping eliminates combustion‑related tar and many polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, it does not eliminate all respiratory risks, especially when carriers like VEA or MCT are present. Additionally, high‑temperature vaping can still produce carbonyls.
Q3. Do synthetic cannabinoids have a “safe” threshold?
No. Their potency is often 10–100× that of THC, and the dose–response curve is steep. Even microgram quantities can provoke severe toxicity. No established “safe” inhalation limit exists.
Q4. How long does a typical vape cartridge last?
Depends on device power and user behavior. A 2 ml cartridge with 20 mg ml⁻¹ nicotine typically provides 200–300 puffs (≈ 10–15 minutes of continuous use). High‑power sub‑ohm tanks can deplete the same volume within 100 puffs.
Q5. Can I vape prescription medications to avoid swallowing pills?
While technically possible, this practice is not recommended. Oral formulations are designed for specific absorption rates; vaping may produce unpredictable plasma concentrations and increase the risk of overdose.
10. Future Directions – What to Watch for in the Vaping Landscape
- Emergence of “nicotine‑free THC” blends – Formulations using cannabinoid isolates without nicotine but paired with novel terpene profiles may target wellness markets. Toxicology studies on these new terpene‑rich aerosols are still sparse.
- Nanoparticle research – Recent electron microscopy of vaporized PG/VG shows formation of ultrafine particles (< 100 nm) that can penetrate deep alveolar tissue. Understanding their long‑term pulmonary effects is an active research frontier.
- Regulatory harmonization – International bodies (WHO, International Tobacco Control Policy) are moving toward a unified definition of “vape product” that includes both nicotine and non‑nicotine devices, facilitating consistent safety standards across borders.
- Medical‑grade inhalation devices – Companies are developing precision‑dose vaporisers for delivering cannabinoids and other therapeutics under strict dosing protocols—potentially shifting vaping from a recreational pastime to a legitimate drug‑delivery modality.
11. Concluding Perspective
The question “What drugs are in vapes?” does not have a single, static answer. Vaping technology acts as a versatile delivery platform that can aerosolize:
- Nicotine (free‑base or salts) – the most prevalent substance, regulated heavily in many jurisdictions.
- Cannabinoids (THC, CBD, Δ⁸‑THC, synthetic variants) – ranging from medically approved extracts to illicit, high‑potency compounds.
- Prescription and illicit pharmaceuticals (opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, dextromethorphan, ketamine) – often hidden in counterfeit or “research‑chemical” cartridges.
- Non‑drug additives (solvents, flavorings, thickening agents) – which, while not pharmacologically active, substantially influence toxicity.
The health impact of each drug class depends on dosage, aerosol composition, device power, and user behavior. While nicotine and CBD are generally considered “low‑risk” relative to combustible tobacco, the presence of high‑potency synthetic cannabinoids, opioids, or contaminated cutting agents can transform a seemingly benign device into a lethal weapon.
For consumers, the safest approach is to:
- Purchase only from reputable, COA‑transparent retailers (such as IGET & ALIBARBAR VAPE Australia).
- Avoid “black‑market” cartridges that lack analytical verification.
- Stay informed about regulatory updates that may affect product legality and safety standards.
By recognizing the diverse pharmacological landscape of vaping, individuals, clinicians, and policymakers can make evidence‑based decisions that protect public health while respecting the legitimate therapeutic potential that some vaporized compounds—particularly certain cannabinoids—may offer when used responsibly under medical supervision.