Pharmacists urge young people to quit vaping this Ash Wednesday

• On national No Smoking Day, the IPU is encouraging smokers and young people who vape to choose today as the day they quit.

Wednesday, 18 February 2026: The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) is calling on smokers and, in particular, young people who use e-cigarettes and vaping products to quit nicotine this Ash Wednesday, which also marks National No Smoking Day, and to speak with their local pharmacist about safer nicotine alternatives.

While many young people view e-cigarettes and vaping products as a safer alternative to smoking, pharmacists warn that vaping is not harm-free. Vaping can expose users to harmful chemicals that may damage the lungs, affect brain development in young people, and increase the risk of addiction. Nicotine and other substances in e-cigarettes can also negatively impact concentration, mood, and long-term cardiovascular and respiratory health.

In Ireland, smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death, with almost 4,500 people dying from tobacco-related diseases each year. While e-cigarettes are considered a quitting method, pharmacists are warning that growing levels of vaping among young people may lead to long-term nicotine dependence and increase the likelihood of progressing to tobacco smoking.

Since 2019, smoking rates in Ireland have remained static, while the use of e-cigarettes and vaping products has increased, particularly among young people. The 2025 Healthy Ireland Survey showed that 18% of those aged 15 to 24 reported vaping either daily (11%) or occasionally (7%). The IPU is therefore encouraging smokers and those who vape to visit their local pharmacy to speak with a pharmacist about practical support to help them quit.

Rebecca Barry Chair of the IPU’s Community Pharmacy Committee (CPC) said, “It is important for younger people in particular to realise the longer they continue to vape the greater the harm and the harder it is to quit. But they should also know help is available at local pharmacies who have experience in providing support. Safer nicotine alternatives have been shown to be effective in increasing the chances of success for those who are ready to quit and is available in pharmacies across the country.

“Quitting nicotine can bring immediate and long-term benefits, including improved breathing, better energy levels, improved sleep and reduced anxiety. Additionally, quitting smoking reduces the risk of premature death, as well as lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, lung disease, and cancer.”

The IPU advises that the best option for health is to quit all nicotine products entirely, with professional support available through community pharmacies.

Concluding, Ms Barry said, “Everyone can quit smoking or vaping, you just need to have the willpower and the know-how. For further information on resources and support available for those wishing to quit smoking, visit your local pharmacy.”

ENDS