Pharmacokinetic and subjective assessment of prototype JUUL2 electronic nicotine delivery system in two nicotine concentrations, JUUL system, IQOS, and combustible cigarette

Rationale Electronic nicotine delivery systems and heated tobacco products are noncombustible alternatives for adult smokers. Evidence suggests sufficient nicotine delivery and satisfying effects are necessary to facilitate switching away from smoking; nicotine delivery varies across electronic nicotine delivery systems within limited nicotine concentrations. Objectives To assess the nicotine delivery and subjective effects of prototype JUUL2 System in two nicotine concentrations, currently-marketed US JUUL System (“JUUL”), IQOS-brand heated tobacco product, and combustible cigarettes. Methods Adult smokers ( N = 40) completed a 5-arm cross-over product-use laboratory confinement study. Nicotine pharmacokinetics and subjective effects were assessed following use of: (1) JUUL2 prototype 18 mg/mL nicotine; (2) JUUL2 prototype 40 mg/mL; (3) JUUL 59 mg/mL; (4) IQOS 18 mg/g; and (5) usual brand combustible cigarette, each evaluated during ad libitum (10 min) and controlled (5 min, 10 standardized puffs) use. Results Nicotine delivery was greatest for combustible cigarettes, followed by JUUL2 prototype 40 mg/mL, IQOS, JUUL2 prototype 18 mg/mL, and JUUL 59 mg/mL. Nicotine delivery from JUUL2 prototype 18 mg/mL was significantly greater than JUUL 59 mg/mL after ad libitum use. JUUL products were significantly more satisfying and effective at reducing craving than IQOS. JUUL2 prototype 40 mg/mL was significantly more aversive than other JUUL products. Conclusions Prototype JUUL2 and JUUL 59 mg/mL products were rated higher than IQOS on subjective measures associated with switching away from smoking. The JUUL2 prototype 40 mg/mL produced aversive responses and would require modifications to be a viable product for adult smokers. Nicotine delivery and subjective responses to JUUL2 prototype 18 mg/mL suggest a product based on this prototype may facilitate increased switching among adult smokers.