A health organisation has welcomed the approval of Aotearoa’s first medically approved quit-vaping product, saying it marks a critical step in recognising vaping dependence as a serious health issue – but warns it must be backed by stronger regulation and prevention efforts.
The approval by Medsafe signals a shift in how nicotine addiction linked to vaping is treated, moving it firmly into the realm of clinical care rather than consumer choice.
“This is an acknowledgement that vaping dependence is real, harmful, and often very difficult to quit without support,” a spokesperson for the Foundation says.
Unlike traditional nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) developed for smokers, the newly approved product is designed to address the high-frequency, high-dose nicotine exposure associated with vaping.
Health experts say vaping delivers nicotine in a way that can create rapid dependency – particularly among rangatahi – making quitting especially challenging.
“This product is tailored to how people actually vape,” the Foundation says. “It supports gradual nicotine reduction in a controlled, clinically supervised way, rather than forcing people into abrupt withdrawal.”
Medsafe’s approval followed an assessment of clinical evidence showing the product’s effectiveness in supporting people with vaping-related nicotine dependence, including its safety profile and ability to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
The Foundation says this approval is significant because it places vaping addiction on the same footing as other medically recognised dependencies.
“For too long, vaping has sat in a grey area,” the spokesperson says. “This decision makes it clear that dependence on vapes is a health issue – not a lifestyle choice.”
While welcoming the approval, the Foundation has raised concerns about access and affordability, particularly for rangatahi and whānau already struggling with addiction.
“If this product is only accessible through private prescriptions or at high cost, then the people who need it most will miss out,” the Foundation says.
They are calling for the product to be widely available through primary care, school-based health services, and community providers, with subsidised or free access where possible.
The Foundation says the quit-vaping product should not be seen as a standalone solution, but as part of a broader public health response that includes education, prevention, and regulation.
“This tool complements the work already happening in schools, marae, and communities,” the spokesperson says. “But without tougher laws on marketing, flavouring, and availability, we will continue to see young people drawn into addiction.”
They are renewing calls for stronger restrictions on vaping products, particularly those that appeal to rangatahi.
Health advocates say the approval represents a turning point – but only if it is followed by meaningful policy action.
“Recognising vaping dependence is important,” the Foundation says. “Now the system needs to ensure people can actually get the help they need, and that fewer young people are hooked in the first place.”
As vaping continues to impact rangatahi across Aotearoa, the message from health leaders is clear: treatment, prevention, and regulation must move together.
