The latest nicotine trend touted on social media could be the stealthiest and most dangerous yet. TikTok influencers are targeting teenagers with promises that nicotine pouches, a discreet way of getting a nicotine jolt, can do everything from enhancing masculinity to providing a powerful “buzz.”
A powdered form of nicotine consumed orally, the pouches come in a variety of flavors. However, because they are not categorized as “smokeless tobacco,” the pouches are not as closely regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as other products, often have higher concentrations of nicotine and can come with significant health risks.
Below, Laura Kelley, media relations professional in the CU Anschutz Office of Communications, speaks with Gina Moore, PharmD, MBA, senior associate dean for operations and regulatory affairs for the Skaggs School of Pharmacy at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, about the dangers of nicotine regardless of how it’s consumed and how these new products might be just as harmful as smoking or vaping.