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FDA investigating possible link between e-cigarettes, seizures
The FDA is investigating a potential link between the use of e-cigarettes and a risk for seizures, Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, said in a statement.
He added that the possible link was identified by a FDA review of voluntary adverse event reports tied to e-cigarettes. Reviewers found 35 reported cases of seizures following use of e-cigarettes between 2010 and early 2019.
Gottlieb added that there is insufficient evidence to point to a specific brand or sub-brand as causing the risk, and it is also unclear what pattern of use is causing the seizures.
“For example, seizures have been reported among first-time e-cigarette users and experienced users. 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,” he said in the statement.
Gottlieb said as the investigation continues, health care professionals, parents, teachers and e-cigarette users should report any past or future incidents of seizures following e-cigarette use to the FDA using the agency’s Safety Reporting Portal (https://www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov/).
Disclosure: Gottlieb is FDA commissioner.