E-cigarettes have been touted as a safer alternative to regular cigarettes...

But research out today suggests rather than being a deterrent, they actually triple the chance of a non-smoker taking up conventional cigarettes.

The study, a partnership between the Australian National University and the University of Melbourne also found there is "insufficient" evidence that they can help existing smokers quit.

The findings follow a recommendation this week by the Therapeutic Goods Administration to reclassify nicotine as a prescription-only drug.