The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the agency is investigating 35 reports received between 2010 and 2019 of people suffering from seizures after vaping.
“While 35 cases may not seem like much compared to the total number of people using e-cigarettes, we are nonetheless concerned by these reported cases,” said outgoing Commissioner Scott Gottlieb and Principal Deputy Commissioner Amy Abernethy. “We also recognize that not all of the cases may be reported. We believe these 35 cases warrant scientific investigation into whether there is in fact a connection.”
Severe cases of nicotine poisoning has been known to cause seizures. But the FDA said that, so far, the cases were too varied to show a clear connection.
“For example, seizures have been reported among first-time e-cigarette users and experienced users,” Gottlieb and Abernethy said. “In a few situations, e-cigarette users reported a prior history of seizure diagnosis. A few reported cases indicated that the seizures occurred in association with the use of other substances such as marijuana or amphetamines. Seizures have been reported as occurring after a few puffs or up to one day after use.”
The agency urged the public to report “any unexpected health or product issues experienced with e-cigarettes or any tobacco product” and said it will continue to provide updates on its investigation.
