Nicotine pouches have been a rising trend, especially in the U.S., over the course of the 2010s. These pouches are small packets that are taken orally. Inside is a powder made up of primarily nicotine (amongst other flavorings) which, when consumed, is dissolved in the mouth. They have seen a surge in popularity, especially amongst the youth. For teens and young adults, they are the second most popular nicotine product, as brands like ZYN continue to gain traction.
The pouches have been able to help some smokers quit (though not approved by the FDA to do so), as they are tobacco-free; however, this does not mean nicotine pouches have no safety risks. For example, like many smoke-free nicotine products, the pouches contain numerous carcinogenic chemicals. Additionally, they have been associated with many oral side effects such as gum irritation, inflammation, mouth sores, among other things. The risks that come with nicotine content also cannot be negated. Nicotine can lead to serious cardiovascular health issues, hypertension (high force of blood against the heart’s artery walls), increased heart rate, and high blood pressure. Studies have found that use in teens leads to issues in brain development as well. Of course, the nicotine in the pouches is also highly addictive.
Nicotine pouches are clearly not at all entirely safe. The concentration of nicotine in such a small pouch is high in proportion to a product such as a cigarette. According to a recent study published in the journal Pediatrics, U.S. poison centers reported over 130,000 cases of nicotine poisonings in children under 6. Among the most serious were cases in which nicotine pouches were consumed–this includes seizures, respiratory failure, and two deaths. Pouches were twice as likely to result in hospitalization. Poisonings from nicotine pouches have also spiked. In just three years, poisonings from nicotine pouches have increased about 760% as a result of growing popularity and use.
Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, and heart rate. In severe cases, comas, seizures, and respiratory failure can occur. Though preventable, incidents resulting from nicotine pouches can easily be fatal.
Nicotine pouch packaging is hardly child proof, as they are easily opened and ingested. It may also look edible–similar to candy or gum. Experts suggest keeping nicotine pouches safely kept away from children and minimize use around them, as children often mimic behavior they see around them. Even further, many urge parents to keep them out of their house entirely.
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