Life is hectic these days, and anxiety is not uncommon, even among adolescents and young adults. Young people also need to destress and counter anxiety.Â
Moreover, in recent years, experts have raised concerns regarding the increasing use of vape pens among minors. Though legally minors cannot buy vape pens, regretfully, some minors are able to get their hands on vape pens somehow. Using vape by minors is not good. Instead, minors must use other methods to manage anxiety, like engagement in sports.
Anxiety pens are portable, handheld devices that typically contain a solution of e-liquid with or without nicotine. They are designed for inhalation and are intended to provide a quick and discreet way to experience the calming effects of vaporized substances.
Since CBD is known to reduce anxiety. In recent years, the term anxiety pen is more likely to be used for CBD vape pens, though not essentially.
Here, it is also vital to understand that when we talk about anxiety, we are not essentially talking about generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), which is a disease. We are here talking about the anxiety caused due to day to day challenges.
Age restrictions on anxiety pens vary by region and country. Many countries have set a legal age for purchasing and using these products, typically aligning with the age limits for traditional tobacco products. Therefore, in the UK, this age limit is 18 years.[1]
These restrictions aim to protect minors from risks associated with any kind of vaping, particularly nicotine vaping. Nicotine is exceptionally bad for growing the brain and blood vessels and is also an addictive substance. Thus, there are concerns that vaping may have unknown adverse long-term health effects in the population group.
Although implementing a legal age limit is necessary, education is also vital. Even adults who use anxiety pens must do it responsibly and should use vape pens in moderation.
Additionally, parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals should educate youth about the dangers of vaping.
It is vital to understand that though the age limit for anxiety pens is 18 years, and after that, one can buy it legally, health experts think that one should avoid vaping at least until age 25. Studies suggest that vaping is more likely to cause memory issues and learning problems in young adults.[2]
Of course, most of these risks associated with brain health are primarily due to nicotine vaping. It is unclear if vapes not containing nicotine or CBD isolate vape pens also have similar adverse effects.
In conclusion, age restrictions on anxiety pens are in place to protect minors from the potential risks associated with vaping and nicotine use. It appears that nicotine is particularly bad for the growing brain. Hence, even young adults who can legally buy vapes (older than 18 years) must avoid nicotine-containing anxiety pens.
It is essential for both retailers and consumers to adhere to these regulations and prioritize responsible use. Education about the risks of vaping is also crucial, ensuring that young individuals are well-informed about the potential consequences of using anxiety pens before they reach the legal age.
This article was authored by:Â Dr. Preet Pal Singh Bhinder.
This article was peer-reviewed by Dr M Mansoor Siddique (PhD). Dr Siddique has over eight years of experience working with CBD and CBD products.
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