A new study has revealed that e-cigarettes are just as addictive and habit-forming as tobacco.

The popularity of e-cigarettes has soared since 2003 as they're billed as safer as and less addictive than regular cigarettes. Additionally, many smokers perceive vaping as a means to bring them one step closer to kicking the habit for good.

However, the study has found that e-cigarettes are harmful due to a common additive known as pyrazine, which is added to make light cigarettes taste richer and smoother.

Evidence suggests that pyrazines have sensory and pharmacological effects, which act in tandem with nicotine. It is more like full-flavored cigarettes and provides a more satisfying vaping or smoking experience that is similar to nicotine.

Nicotine releases dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is also involved in drug addiction and pain processing when it hits the brain's reward center.

For the study, the researchers analyzed internal documents and scientific research about cigarette additives from the tobacco industry. The cigarette additives became available in the late 1990s in lawsuits that were filed against Philip Morris and other cigarette manufacturers.

Their findings revealed that Philip Morris prepared documents, which started the company's plan to develop a low-tar cigarette with full flavor. Other documents revealed that the company conducted research to identify chemicals that could improve the smell and taste found in full-strength cigarettes.

The study results were published online in the journal Tobacco Control this week.