Nicotine pouches: Are they safer than chewing, smoking or vaping?

Velo fox pablo snus nicopods nicotine ... Although advertising may make it look convenient and appealing, it’s important to know that these products deliver varying amounts of the addictive chemical nicotine, which can negatively impact your learning, attention span and proneness to addiction.

Are nicotine pouches safer than chewing, smoking or vaping?

The long-term health impact of nicotine pouches is still unknown. They are not technically categorized as smokeless tobacco, so the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate them as strictly as smoked tobacco products or combustible tobacco. Without long-term data, we cannot be certain if or how reduced exposure will prevent harm to one’s health.

Side effects of use can include:

Irritation of the gums
Sore mouth

Hiccups
Nausea
Nicotine addiction (which increases relapse risk with other tobacco products)

Are nicotine pouches a safe approach to quitting nicotine dependence?

There is no data to show nicotine pouches as a safe or effective way to quit. University Health Center medical experts and Nebraska Medicine certified tobacco treatment specialist Jill Selzle, PA, do not recommend these products.

If someone is already using nicotine pouches and has been able to quit tobacco, we suggest weaning off them for full nicotine freedom. Approved short-term nicotine replacement therapies include:

Nicotine patches
Gum

Lozenges
Nasal spray
Nicotine inhaler

All medications have side effects and indications for use, so it’s important to discuss this information with a health care provider before use.

Living nicotine-free is possible

Here are a few expert tips to help you quit for good:

Understand nicotine withdrawal – what it looks and feels like for you
Find ways to physically and mentally deal with urges in a healthy way

Delay or distract to avoid tobacco use
Practice mindfulness: Don't be on autopilot, but be aware of every time you choose to use
Use visualization, deep breathing or meditation to focus your energy
Try a new hobby or activity to keep yourself busy
Change routines

Avoid access to tobacco: don't have it around, pay at the pump, avoid high-risk social situations, etc.
Exercise – it increases endorphins and helps you to stay busy in a healthy way
Drink plenty of water
Choose healthy foods