These are all practical concerns and well worth addressing. Below is a list of FAQ's and answers for you smokers to ponder before reaching for that next smelly tobacco stogie.

1. Is using an electronic cigarette like smoking a 'real' cigarette?

A huge percentage of present e-cigarette users report a remarkable similarity between the satisfaction they receive from inhaling smoke from a tobacco cigarette and 'vapor' from an electronic cigarette. In fact many heavy tobacco users have been able to switch over entirely to the e-cigarette in a matter of days without feeling like they're missing out on anything. The vapor from the electronic device feels, looks and tastes like tobacco smoke.

2. How safe is the electronic cigarette?

By eliminating the thousands of toxins created by the burning of tobacco it only stands to reason that electronic cigarettes have to be considerably safer. The main ingredients in solution that is vaporized and inhaled are nicotine,water, propylene glycol and one of the optional flavors. Propylene glycol is an odorless and harmless substance. Nicotine, by itself, is reported by the Royal College of Physicians to have no long term ill health efects.

3. Can electronic cigarettes be used as part of a 'quit smoking' regimen?

Certainly. The amount of nicotine delivered by e-cigarettes can be controlled. Zero,low, medium and high dosage cartridges can be used depending on what the current tobacco user is accustomed to using. Over time you could conveivably lower your dosage down to the zero nicotine content cartridge which would allow you, if desired, to continue the physical aspect of 'smoking' while inhaling only one of the optional flavors such as mint, vanilla, chocolate, etc. Quitting smoking requires a strong conviction to address not only the nicotine craving but the many 'triggers' that we associate with smoking. Since it is not under the jurisdiction of the FDA right now the agency is not in a position to approve the product as a smoking cessation device. But consider that those products which are approved such as the patch, gum, lozenges etc. still deliver controlled amounts of nicotine into your system.

4. Can I use an electronic cigarette in public spaces?

Smoking bans have been implemented to protect our citizens from hazardous chemicals transported by the burning of tobacco. Fire prevention is another. Electronic cigarettes produce no flame or smoke and therefore do not fall under that description. E-cigarettes produce only an odorless, quickly dissipating vapor. Attention may be called to the user by the appearance of the product ( a colored Led glows at the tip when airflow is created ), so obtaining permission from restaurant management, airport personnel, or similar locations is suggested.

5. Are manufacturers targeting teenagers?

There are no advertisements featuring the use of this product by teenagers or promoting it as something that is 'cool'. The optional flavors are just that, optional and appeal to many adults just as menthol tobacco cigarettes and cherry and rum flavored cigars have for years. The cost of the starter kit, anywhere from 80 to more than 100 dollars, also makes this product much less attractive to kids.

6. Where are electronic cigarettes sold?

Several brands are available for purchase on line. Just go to your search engine and type in 'electronic cigarretes' or 'e-cigarrettes'. Some companies are even offering free trial periods. If you're not satisfied you can return the kits and are only out the shipping and handling charge. Some tobacco shops are starting to carry them as well and kiosks are appearing in malls and shopping centers. Do a little research before you hand over your greenbacks since some of the cheaper brands have been discovered to be wrought with mechanical problems. It's worth it to spend a few extra dollars to ensure that your device is of good quality.