Read articles from Oceania

October 02, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates criticizes New Zealand's plan to ban closed vaping systems, arguing it hinders harm reduction progress and may lead ex-smokers back to cigarettes. The proposal neglects consumer choice, disproportionately impacting older users and those with dexterity issues. The focus on restrictions overlooks key issues like youth access and smoking cessation. CAPHRA stresses the need for evidence-based policies, urging a reevaluation in favor of education, enforcement, and transparent communication. The group advocates for access to regulated harm reduction products to combat smoking-related diseases in the Asia-Pacific region.

October 01, 2024 by tasmaniantimes.com

Vaping laws coming into effect from today in some other parts of Australia will not apply in Tasmania, the Director of Public Health, Dr Mark Veitch, has confirmed. From today, 1 October 2024, national laws about the sale of e-cigarette products have changed. This means that in some mainland jurisdictions, adults can buy certain e-cigarette products over the counter in pharmacies without a prescription. However, in Tasmania existing laws restricting the buying and selling of e-cigarettes will remain in place. Dr Mark Veitch, Director of Public Health, said: “Despite changes elsewhere Tasmania is retaining the current requirements for the buying and selling of e-cigarette products.

October 01, 2024 by health.gov.au

Starting on October 1, 2024, Australia implements new vaping regulations to safeguard children against vaping risks. Therapeutic vaping products will be available in pharmacies, with controlled nicotine levels and limited flavors. The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia collaborates with the government to train pharmacists in supporting these reforms. Adults over 18 can buy vapes for quitting smoking without a prescription, but must consult a pharmacist. Vapes will have strict controls like other pharmacist-only products. Pharmacists will be insured when dispensing vaping products and must verify the buyer's age. Vapes can only be purchased through pharmacies.

October 01, 2024 by theconversation.com

New Australian laws effective from October 1 allow pharmacists to provide vapes with up to 2% nicotine without a prescription to aid smoking cessation. Under 18s still need a prescription. Evidence shows vapes can help quit smoking with fewer health risks than cigarettes. The changes aim to balance adult access for therapeutic use while safeguarding youth. Barriers like pharmacist concerns and state restrictions may affect implementation. Despite concerns, the move aligns with government policy not penalizing vape users. Vapes are one of many cessation options available without a prescription, including non-nicotine medication.

October 01, 2024 by colinmendelsohn.com.au

Starting October 1, 2024, some vaping products up to 20mg/mL nicotine will be available without a prescription in Australian pharmacies. Online sales are banned. Limited product range may be found, restrictions apply on nicotine levels and flavors. Detailed consultations and personal information are required. Referral to a doctor may be needed for certain cases. Concerns exist about the new regulations' effectiveness. The pharmacy model may hinder legal access to vaping, leading to continued black market purchases and potential relapses to smoking, impacting public health negatively. Senate may disallow the Vaping Reforms bill.

October 01, 2024 by colinmendelsohn.com.au

Starting October 1, 2024, some vaping products up to 20mg/mL nicotine will be available without a prescription in Australian pharmacies. Online sales are banned. Limited product range may be found, restrictions apply on nicotine levels and flavors. Detailed consultations and personal information are required. Referral to a doctor may be needed for certain cases. Concerns exist about the new regulations' effectiveness. The pharmacy model may hinder legal access to vaping, leading to continued black market purchases and potential relapses to smoking, impacting public health negatively. Senate may disallow the Vaping Reforms bill.

October 01, 2024 by colinmendelsohn.com.au

Starting tomorrow, , 1 October 2024, Australia allows some vaping products without a prescription at brick-and-mortar pharmacies, not online. Finding a pharmacy selling vapes might be challenging, and only TGA-approved items can be dispensed. Online pharmacies are banned from selling Schedule 3 and 4 vaping products. Vapers must be over 18 and consult with a pharmacist. Nicotine levels are capped, flavors limited, and no DIY mixing allowed. Pharmacists conduct detailed consultations and report to authorities. Referral to a GP is advised in certain cases. Senate may disallow the bill due to concerns. The pharmacy-only model may hinder legal access, leading to increased black-market sales and harm public health.

October 01, 2024 by heartfoundation.org.au

The Heart Foundation applauds Western Australia's decision to maintain strict vaping restrictions, prioritizing public health. Despite new national regulations allowing vape sales in pharmacies without a prescription, WA's stance underscores the risks associated with e-cigarettes. Dr. Helena Viola, the Foundation's WA General Manager, highlights the dangers of vaping, including a 33% higher heart attack risk and increased likelihood of youth smoking. Emphasizing the importance of prevention, the Foundation supports WA's commitment to curbing nicotine addiction and promoting cessation through healthcare providers.

September 30, 2024 by mja.com.au

Experts urge an inquiry into the toxicity of 6-methylnicotine, a dangerous nicotine alternative found in some vapes. Australia recently banned the sale and import of vapes but allows over-the-counter sales through pharmacies for individuals over 18. However, these banned products are still circulating on the black market, evading regulation by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. A study revealed that vapes labeled as 'nicotine-free' contain the toxic 6-methylnicotine, posing health risks. Additional chemicals like benzoic acid were also detected. The authors highlight the compound's high toxicity compared to nicotine and call for further research on its health effects.

September 27, 2024 by archive.md

Experts have raised concerns about banned oral nicotine products freely available at Australian convenience stores, potentially hooking children post the national vape ban. Synthetic nicotine pouches like "VELO" and "Zyn" with high nicotine levels are being sold to minors. Despite warnings and labels, these products, replacing vapes, are easily accessible, with doubts on their safety due to cancer-causing chemicals. The rise of illicit nicotine items exemplifies the failure of bans. Health professionals and ministers emphasize the dangers, acknowledging the underground market's risks and the need for stricter regulation to protect youth from addiction.