a Comparison of Use Topography and Nicotine Pharmacokinetics among Loose and Portioned Smokeless Tobacco Users.

Introduction:
This text is a summary of a study that compares use topography and nicotine pharmacokinetics among loose and portioned smokeless tobacco (ST) users. The study aimed to evaluate differences in ST use behavior and nicotine exposure between users of loose and portioned ST products. additionally, the study examined possible associations between ST nicotine content (free nicotine and total nicotine) and nicotine exposure.

Key Points:

* The study included 30 loose ST users and 20 portioned ST users.
* Loose ST users used more product and had a greater average deposition time per use than portioned ST users.
* Nicotine exposure was more strongly associated with free nicotine content than total nicotine content.
* Loose ST users had significantly higher maximum plasma nicotine concentration (Cmax) and area under the nicotine concentration versus time curve (aUC) than portioned ST users.
* The average amount per use and total amount used were significantly higher among the loose ST group.
* Free nicotine content significantly correlated with first use Cmax and aUC0-1 h for both ST groups.

Main Message:
The study found meaningful differences in use behavior and subsequent nicotine exposure between loose and portioned ST users. The study also found that nicotine exposure was more strongly associated with free nicotine content than total nicotine content. These findings suggest that product characteristics, such as free nicotine content, may have an impact on nicotine exposure and abuse liability, and warrants further investigation. Regulatory agencies may consider these factors when evaluating the public health impact of different ST products.

Nighbor, T., Meredith, S., Salazar, E., Cartagena, C., Koszowski, B., Pickworth, W. B., & hull, L. C. (2023). a Comparison of Use Topography and Nicotine Pharmacokinetics among Loose and Portioned Smokeless Tobacco Users. Nicotine & Tobacco Research : Official Journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco, 25(4), 624–630. https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntac195