Nicotine pouches are the new rage among adult smokers for smoke-free, inconspicuous modes of smoking. The white packets of powder, so small they can hardly be noticed, contain no tobacco leaf but still serve up nicotine from the lining of the mouth. Tobacco or not, however, one can’t help but ask: are they safe?
Prime Nic Pouches a company that distributes nicotine pouches. It has been known to sell tobacco-free items in many different strengths and flavors.
This article takes into account what medicine and science experts have to say about the safety of nicotine pouches, what the possible harms are, and what to look out for before using them.
What Are Nicotine Pouches?
Nicotine pouches are tiny, soft, white packets filled with nicotine, flavoring, plant fibers, and sweeteners. You place one between your gum and lip and leave it there to release nicotine over a period of time, usually 30 to 60 minutes. They don’t require spitting, unlike chewing tobacco, and they don’t release vapor or smoke, unlike vaping or smoking.
They are popular with most people because they are odorless, discreet, and can be smoked almost everywhere, ranging from offices to parties. They do not stain teeth, unlike some tobaccos, nor cause bad breath.
Are Nicotine Pouches Safer Than Cigarettes?
No Smoke, Less Harm?
One of the main reasons why people use nicotine pouches is that they are smoke-free. Without the burning component, the users are not subjecting themselves to most of the toxins found in cigarette smoke, such as tar, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde.
Because of this, most individuals believe nicotine pouches are a “healthier” alternative to smoking. There is evidence that eliminating smoke reduces the risk of lung disease, including cancer and COPD.
However, this doesn’t mean that nicotine pouches are completely safe.
Still Addictive
Nicotine pouches still deliver the addictive substance, nicotine. Whether delivered as smoke, vapor, or pouches, nicotine has the potential to cause dependency. That is why some health experts warn against recreational or social use, especially by children or non-smokers.
Health Risks Linked to Nicotine Pouches
Gum and Mouth Irritation
Certain users experience side effects of gum irritation, dryness, or tingling. Repeated use over a long period in one place can lead to gum recession or tooth sensitivity.
These side effects are typically minor but ought to be regarded nonetheless, particularly with repeated use.
Cardiovascular Effects
Nicotine, even at low levels, has the potential to raise blood pressure and heart rate. This poses a risk for those who already have heart disease or high blood pressure. While less dangerous than smoking, nicotine pouches are still problematic for the heart.
Not for Pregnant or Young Users
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are strongly advised against using any form of nicotine, including nicotine pouches. Nicotine is dangerous for fetal growth and can cause low birth weight or preterm birth.
Teenagers and young adults are also especially susceptible to nicotine addiction, which affects brain development and impulse regulation.
Can Nicotine Pouches Help You Quit Smoking?
Some See It as a Step Down
For heavy smokers, a switch to nicotine pouches might seem to be a positive move. Since there is no burning, there is no smoking damage to the lungs. A few smokers use them to quit or cut back on cigarettes.
But nicotine pouches are not FDA-approved for use as an aid to quitting smoking. Contrary to nicotine gum or patches, there isn’t strong clinical data yet demonstrating they help individuals quit for life.
Potential Gateway for Non-Smokers
One of the worries of medical professionals is that nicotine pouches would introduce individuals who never smoked in their lifetime to nicotine. With appealing flavors and slim packaging, they could tempt teenagers or young adults into using nicotine, which would lead to addiction and potentially to subsequent tobacco use.
What the Research Says So Far
Research into the long-term effects of nicotine pouches continues. Up to now, most research agrees with the following:
- Nicotine pouches reduce exposure to harmful smoke-related chemicals.
- They still pose addiction risks.
- There could be oral health concerns with frequent use.
- They are not wholly risk-free
- The long-term health consequences are unknown.
Who Should Avoid Nicotine Pouches?
Nicotine pouches should not be used by:
- Adolescents and young adults less than 21
- Pregnant or lactating women
- Individuals with high blood pressure or heart disease
- Non-smokers or others not already addicted to nicotine
For individuals who already consume nicotine and desire to experiment with something less injurious, they might offer a replacement, but beware.
The World Health Organization and the CDC have not yet established clear guidelines on nicotine pouches, and further scientific research must be conducted before they can be comprehensively understood as safe.
Final Thoughts
Nicotine pouches are a smokeless, tobacco-free product that some consumers find safer to use than nicotine. They eliminate the dangers of smoke, but they don’t eliminate the danger of nicotine.
