No, there is no evidence that nicotine itself causes any short or long term harm. In its 2024 evidence review of vaping and harm reduction, the Royal College of Physicians (UK) confirmed that “current evidence suggests nicotine itself confers little risk to health”, and that while “not harmless, [nicotine vapes] are demonstrably less harmful than smoked tobacco to user and bystander alike.” (1)
However many people - including many health professionals - incorrectly believe it is the nicotine in cigarettes which causes cancer. This is wrong. It is the toxins in cigarettes, released when tobacco is burned, which cause cancer.
And don’t forget, nicotine is the chemical in nicotine patches, gums and lozenges which are approved by medical authorities for long term use. Nicotine is on the World Health Organization’s list of Essential Medicines in the form of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). (2)
While there is no evidence of short or long term harm due to nicotine use, it should be noted that people with heart problems should avoid any stimulant drug.
(1) E-cigarettes and harm reduction: An evidence review. (2024). The Royal College of Physicians (RCP).
(2) WHO. (2026). eEML - Electronic Essential Medicines List—Nicotine Replacement Therapy. World Health Organization.