PUFFiT™ and PUFFiT-X™ smoking devices

Consumers and health professionals are advised that the TGA is aware of products being offered for supply which include the PUFFiT^TM and PUFFiT-X^TM smoking devices which, either by design or mistake, closely resemble Metered Dose Inhalers (MDI) which are approved respiratory medicines. Some of the PUFFiT^TM and PUFFiT-X^TM smoking devices are of a very similar shape, construction and colour as some approved MDI medicines.

Unlike electronic cigarettes, which often heat a liquid cartridge providing an aerosol of particles to be inhaled, the PUFFiT^TM and PUFFiT-X^TM smoking devices are intended to burn vegetable material such as herbs or tobacco, the smoke of which is inhaled.

The PUFFiT^TM states "This is not a medical device" on the product and product packaging. However, because of the similarities between the two products there is a risk that the PUFFiT^TM and PUFFiT-X^TM smoking products may inadvertently appear to be used to treat the symptoms associated with asthma. Where there is the possibility of confusion the following should be confirmed when looking at the product:

• shape of the canister insert
• absence of any label on the insert

The TGA is concerned about possible confusion to patients who use MDI respiratory medicines with products such as the PUFFiT^TM and PUFFiT-X^TM smoking devices, particularly for younger or elderly patients in times of respiratory distress.

The TGA urges owners or users of products such as the PUFFiT^TM and PUFFiT-X^TM smoking devices to be particularly mindful of the potential for confusion for patients with respiratory problems with their MDI medicines and to secure the PUFFiT^TM and PUFFiT-X^TM smoking devices away from family or friends, particularly the young or elderly.

PUFFiT^TM smoking device

An MDI approved by the TGA, and a PUFFiT^TM smoking device

A PUFFiT^TM smoking device with the top unscrewed revealing the receptacle for vegetable matter to be burned for smoking