Nicotine Pouches: A New Way to Quit Smoking?

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is available to buy over-the-counter in the UK. However, nicotine pouches have become a popular alternative to smoking and vaping. These small, tobacco-free sachets contain a powder made up of nicotine, flavorings, and other additives, which are placed between the upper lip and gum to release a nicotine buzz without the damage to lungs.

A New Player in the Market

Nicotine pouches were first introduced to the UK market in 2019. Common brands in the UK include ZYN, Velo, and Nordic Spirit. They are similar to snus – loose tobacco in a pouch that is used in the same way as nicotine pouches. Although snus has been used for many years in Scandinavia, it was banned in the UK in 1992. Today’s generation of nicotine pouches is marketed as a way to get the benefits of nicotine without the harmful effects of cigarettes or vapes.

Regulation and Concerns

Unlike NRT, nicotine pouches are classed as consumer products, so they are not regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Since they do not contain tobacco, nicotine pouches cannot be regulated by the Tobacco and Related Product Regulations either. This means there is no age restriction to buy them.

However, some experts are concerned about the marketing of nicotine pouches, particularly on social media. Influencers are sponsored to promote these products as “clean,” “discreet,” and “convenient.” This has led to a significant increase in their popularity, especially among young people.

Health Risks

Nicotine acts on receptors in the brain, releasing chemical messengers including the “happy hormone” dopamine. These chemical messengers are responsible for the pleasurable feelings and addictive behavior that people often experience when using tobacco or nicotine products. Research shows that nicotine is released more slowly from pouches compared to cigarettes, so it may be less addictive than cigarettes. However, pouches can also vary in the amount of nicotine they contain, and some have very high levels, higher than cigarettes and NRT.

Conclusion

While nicotine pouches may be a convenient and discreet way to get a nicotine fix, they are not without risks. The lack of regulation and the potential for addiction make them a concern for many experts. As the popularity of nicotine pouches continues to grow, it is essential to monitor their use and potential effects on public health.

FAQs

* What are nicotine pouches?
+ Nicotine pouches are small, tobacco-free sachets containing a powder made up of nicotine, flavorings, and other additives.
* How do nicotine pouches work?
+ Nicotine pouches are placed between the upper lip and gum to release a nicotine buzz without the damage to lungs.
* Are nicotine pouches regulated?
+ No, nicotine pouches are classed as consumer products and are not regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency or the Tobacco and Related Product Regulations.
* Are nicotine pouches safe?
+ Nicotine can be harmful, and the long-term effects of using nicotine pouches are not yet fully understood. There are also concerns about the potential for addiction and oral health risks.