Nicotine pouches don’t contain tobacco leaf or smoke, so they avoid the harms from inhaling burned tobacco. But that doesn’t make them completely safe. Nicotine is highly addictive. It can raise your heart rate and blood pressure and put strain on your heart.
Nicotine also changes how teen brains develop. It can affect memory, attention, and learning, and may increase the risk of addiction to other substances later on. Scientists are still studying the long-term effects of nicotine pouches.
What are the side effects of using nicotine pouches?
- Mouth and gum irritation1
- Nausea
- Nicotine dependence2
What are nicotine salts?
Nicotine salts, also known as e-liquids, are a form of nicotine not naturally found in tobacco leaves. They are created by combining nicotine with acid. They are chemically altered to be more stable and less harsh when inhaled, allowing for higher concentrations of nicotine to be delivered more smoothly. This modification enables users to inhale higher levels of nicotine.3
Are nicotine salts more addictive than tobacco-derived nicotine?
Because they deliver higher nicotine concentrations more efficiently, nicotine salts may increase the potential for greater addiction.
How do nicotine products affect adolescent brain development?
Nicotine exposure during adolescence can disrupt brain development, impacting areas responsible for attention, learning, and impulse control. The adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable, and nicotine can cause long-term structural and functional changes.4
Are there any cardiovascular risks associated with nicotine pouch use?
Yes, nicotine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues. While nicotine pouches don’t involve inhaling smoke or vapors, the nicotine itself poses risks to heart health.