Last updated: September 17, 2019
Key Terms
E-Cigarette
“Nicotine vaping product” means a medicine that contains nicotine in solution and that is: (a) a finished product; and (b) intended to be vaporised and administered by inhalation using a vaping device. Nicotine vaping products may also be described as nicotine vape liquids, or nicotine e‑liquids.
This definition is significant because it includes e-cigarettes, e-pens, and vape pens.
For the purpose of this review, we will use the term “e-cigarette” when referring to an "electronic cigarette."
Prescription only medicines
“Prescription only medicines” means substances, the use or supply of which should be by or on the order of persons permitted by State or Territory legislation to prescribe and should be available from a pharmacist on prescription.
The definition of “prescription only medicines” is significant because nicotine is listed in Schedule 4 as a substance available by prescription only. Therefore, e-cigarettes that contain nicotine are a Schedule 4 product and available only by prescription.
Dangerous poisons
“Dangerous poisons” means substances with a high potential for causing harm at low exposure and which require special precautions during manufacture, handling or use. These poisons should be available only to specialised or authorised users who have the skills necessary to handle them safely. Special regulations restricting their availability, possession, storage or use may apply.
The definition of “dangerous poisons” is significant because nicotine is listed in Schedule 7 as a dangerous poison. Therefore, special restrictions apply to the availability of e-cigarettes that contain nicotine.
