Ben Fordham has consistently advocated for the legalisation of e-cigarettes and liquid nicotine.

In the past month, two cancer action bodies overseas have changed their official policies, now urging smokers to switch to vaping.

But in Australia, if you want to buy nicotine vape-liquid, it requires a prescription and a specialist chemist.

The consequences of buying the liquid without a prescription can result in hefty fines and potential jail time.

Last week, Ben had a fiery exchange with NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard on the merits of e-cigarettes.

Ben now speaks with tobacco treatment specialist and Associate Professor from the School of Public Health at UNSW, Colin Mendelsohn, to gauge his reaction.

“Nicotine has got to be one of the most misunderstood drugs.

“It’s a chemical that most smokers are addicted too… but it’s got relatively minor health effects.

“It’s been used in nicotine replacement therapy for 30 years. We’ve had patches and gum without any serious concerns.”

He tells Ben Fordham Health Minister Brad Hazzard would benefit from speaking to vapers who have had positive experiences after making the switch.

“I know [e-ciggarettes] work because I use them all the time in clinical practice, and I see the results.”

Listen to the full interview below