I agree that E-cigarettes deserve more research and regulation. In fact, as a consumer of this product, I wouldn't mind paying a tax on the nicotine fluid.
I take exception to the doctor's statements about the unknown effects that the other ingredients may have. As your own reporter stated, Propylene glycol "PG" is the primary constituent of the nicotine fluid. What she failed to mention, (I know how deadlines are) is that it is used in most asthma inhalers. This can be confirmed by contacting any compounding pharmacy. PG is also used in commercial fog machines. Research conducted in NY shows that PG is an effective bacteriacide and has been used in it's vapor form to sanitize hospitals. Long term exposure studies have shown no ill effects and it is FDA approved for inhalation therapies.
Aside from water, PG, and nicotine, the only other constituents are flavorings which also bear FDA approval for human consumption.
Much of the recent furor over these products arise from a press release from the FDA, issued shortly after litigation commenced over their seizure of these products.
Professional toxicologists that have reviewed the actual study have been quoted as describing the research and findings as "Questionable" and "Irresponsible"
Claims by less than reputable marketers about health benefits should be considered as such. Most of these marketers also offer "Free Trials" which after reading the fine print, are not free at all. This is a matter for the FTC, not the FDA.
Personally, I have not smoked a cigarette since shortly after starting with this product. I smoked for 42 years and was up to
three packs per day. I can't say that I have quit smoking because I will probably have to resume cigarettes if this product becomes unavailable.
Had I become addicted to opiates instead of nicotine, the government would give me free methadone and needles for life. Simply because it's less dangerous. Talk about hypocrites.