Summary
Introduction:
This article is a review of nicotine pouches, a tobacco-free product that is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. The review covers the composition of nicotine pouches, the legality surrounding their production and sale, patterns of use, and possible oral and general health effects of their usage. As a regulatory expert, this summary will focus on the key points related to the production, sale, and regulation of nicotine pouches.
Key Points:
* Nicotine pouches are tobacco-free products that deliver nicotine through the oral mucosa.
* They are composed of nicotine, water, microcrystalline cellulose, flavorings, and sweeteners.
* Nicotine pouches are currently regulated in the UK by default under the General Product Safety Regulations (GPSR) and not covered by the Tobacco and Related Product Regulations (TRPR).
* There is no age restriction on the sale of nicotine pouches in the UK, and they can be sold in convenience stores and online.
* Nicotine pouches have been shown to deliver nicotine effectively, with maximum observed concentrations similar to that of lozenges and higher than nicotine gum.
* There is currently no published evidence involving the use of nicotine pouches as a smoking cessation tool.
* The UK currently promotes the use of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation, and it is unclear if nicotine pouches will be considered as a smoking cessation tool in the future.
Main Message:
Nicotine pouches are a relatively new product in the UK, and their regulation is currently not as stringent as that of tobacco products or nicotine replacement therapies. While nicotine pouches may provide another option in tobacco harm reduction and smoking cessation, their long-term effects remain inconclusive. The lack of regulation and age restriction on sale, along with the addictive nature of nicotine, raises concerns about the potential for nicotine pouches to be used by young people. Therefore, there is a need for further research and regulation of nicotine pouches to ensure their safe use and prevent potential negative health effects.
Citation
Jackson, J., Weke, A., & Holliday, R. (2023). Nicotine pouches: A review for the dental team. British Dental Journal, 235(8), 643–646. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-023-6383-7
