Using vape, also known as e-cigarettes, can be dangerous. Some devices produce toxic fumes that can irritate the lungs and cause other health problems. They can also contain harmful chemicals, including nicotine, which can change the way the brain works and promote addiction.

E-cigarettes deliver nicotine into the lungs by heating liquid to make it turn into a vapor. Nicotine reaches the brain in 10 seconds, triggers a surge of dopamine and makes you crave more. It can also affect concentration and learning, putting you at risk for addiction. It can even lead to cigarette smoking. A single vaping session can last up to 20 minutes and may deliver as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes.

Many young people try vaping out of curiosity or peer pressure, but once they start, it can be difficult to stop. They might think it’s no big deal to vape occasionally, but even just a little can open the door to addiction and other harms.

It’s important to talk with young people about vaping and all the potential risks. It’s not too late to help them quit.

The FDA’s rules on e-cigarettes say they must be sold in child-resistant packaging and have a warning label. But many kids get them from older teens or online retailers, and some use modified e-cigarettes. These may not meet the FDA’s safety rules, and can be dangerous if they don’t have child-resistant caps or are not made by a reputable manufacturer.

Some e-cigarettes have batteries that can explode. Others have faulty parts that can leak or catch fire. And e-liquids (or “e-juice”) can contain harmful substances, like nicotine, metal and flavorings. Some of these can cause health problems, like lung damage and heart disease. They can also contain carcinogens, such as acetaldehyde and formaldehyde. Chemicals that can cause lung scarring, such as diacetyl, and a lung condition called bronchiolitis obliterans, or “popcorn lung.” Some have high levels of heavy metals like nickel, tin and cadmium.

A new study found that teenagers who vape are more likely to smoke regular cigarettes later in life. And people who started vaping as a way to quit smoking ended up smoking more than those who never used vape.

You can find free resources to help you talk with the young people in your life about vaping and how to quit. Ask your health care provider or a therapist about options, including online, texting and phone services and apps, and counselors. Help them decide why they want to quit and write down or look at the reasons, especially when they feel tempted to vape. Plan a date to quit, and tell supportive friends and family. Find other activities that will help them feel happy and healthy. For example, getting exercise or chewing sugar-free gum or lollipops can distract them from their cravings. Also, get rid of any vaping supplies you have, so they can’t pick up and use them.