RESUMO
OBJECTIVES: This systematic literature review focused on patients suffering from schizophrenia (SZ), psychotic disorders or mental illness (MI) including SZ. It was interested in data on prevalence of electronic cigarette (EC) use, patient perceptions and expectations, as well as caregivers' attitudes towards the EC and its benefit in helping to stop or reduce smoking. METHOD: The research was carried out on Medline for the period 2000-2020. Cross-sectional, case-control, prospective, randomized controlled studies and preliminary studies were included in this review. RESULTS: EC is widely used by MI patients with current and lifetime use from 7.4% to 28.6%. More specifically, patients with SZ and schizoaffective disorders observe current and lifetime use from 7% to 36%, respectively. Many reasons are given by patients for its use including the possibility of using it in places where smoking is prohibited, its lower toxicity compared to cigarettes for oneself and those around, its lower cost, and the help provided to reduce consumption. CONCLUSION: EC is used by smokers with MI; several studies confirm the possibility for these smokers to reduce tobacco consumption through EC and without disturbing their mental state. However, its value in helping to quit smoking remains uncertain.