Nicotine Pouches: A New Trend, But Are They Safe?
You've probably seen them at the store - small pouches promising a nicotine hit without the smoke. Nicotine pouches are the latest trend, but are they really safer than other tobacco products?
The Nicotine Trap: Still Addictive
While many people believe nicotine pouches are safer than smoking, there is not enough research to know about the long-term health effects. These pouches contain high levels of nicotine, which make them very addictive and risky, particularly for young people.
Nicotine is a stimulant and can affect brain development, impacting attention, mood, and impulse control. Nicotine’s grip on the brain is strong. It triggers a release of “feel-good” chemicals, and with repeated use, the brain craves this boost. Removing nicotine leads to withdrawal symptoms, making quitting challenging. Read our current factsheet for more information.
Proceed with caution. Nicotine pouches have downsides.
Kicking the Habit: It's Not Easy
Taper Down Gradually
Tapering is when you slowly decrease your nicotine pouch use over time. For example, try switching to a lower dose pouch or waiting longer to have your next pouch. This gentle approach helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and gives you a chance to practice coping with cravings.
Keep Busy and Distracted
When cravings hit, do something that keeps your hands and mind off nicotine. Go for a walk, try a new hobby, connect with supportive friends and family, or play a game!
Explore Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
While not FDA-approved to help people quit nicotine pouches, NRT like gum or patches might help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor to discuss if it’s right for you.
Every quit attempt is a step in the right direction.
Celebrate your progress, be kind to yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek support. You’ve got this!
THE BOTTOM LINE
Nicotine pouches may seem harmless but we don’t know enough about them to say this new product is safe. These pouches deliver a potent dose of nicotine, a highly addictive substance that can wreak havoc on health, especially for young people whose brains are still developing. It’s important to know the risks , including addiction, uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, and potential long-term health problems. If you’re struggling to break free from nicotine, don’t hesitate to seek help. A Kick It Coach is here to offer resources and support to help you quit. They provide personalized quit plans, coping strategies for cravings, and a supportive community to cheer you on every step of the way.
Remember, your health is your most valuable asset. Take control of your nicotine habit and reclaim your well-being today.
Are you ready to take the next step? Try these activities below.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Feeling overwhelmed by stress or cravings? Take a moment for yourself with these calming videos. Designed to support your quit journey, these simple techniques can help you find relief and stay centered. Deep breathing is a powerful tool to manage stress, reduce anxiety, and conquer those nicotine urges. Hit play, breathe deep, and find your inner peace. Remember, you've got this!
References
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- Mallock, N., Schulz, T., Malke, S., Dreiack, N., Laux, P., & Luch, A. (2024). Levels of nicotine and tobacco-specific nitrosamines in oral nicotine pouches. Tobacco Control, 33(2), 193-199.
- Nargiz Travis, Kenneth E Warner, Maciej L Goniewicz, Hayoung Oh, Radhika Ranganathan, Rafael Meza, Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, David T Levy, The Potential Impact of Oral Nicotine Pouches on Public Health: A Scoping Review, Nicotine & Tobacco Research, 2024;, ntae131, https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntae131
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. E-Cigarette Use Among Youth and Young Adults. A Report of the Surgeon General. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services; 2016.
