The New Face of Nicotine

If it feels like there are more nicotine products around today than there used to be, you're right.

Not long ago, cigarettes and chewing tobacco were the nicotine products most people were familiar with. Today, vaping devices and nicotine pouches have become increasingly common, especially among teens and young adults.

As these products have grown in popularity, so have the questions surrounding them. What do we know about their health effects? What risks should people be aware of? And what have we learned since these products first appeared?

Researchers are still studying long-term effects of newer nicotine products, but we know more today than we did a decade ago.

What Hasn't Changed

While the products may be different, nicotine itself has not changed.

Nicotine is highly addictive and can affect multiple systems throughout the body. It can increase heart rate and blood pressure, affect the developing brain in adolescents and young adults, and make it difficult to stop using nicotine once a habit forms.

Whether it comes from a cigarette, vape or nicotine pouch, nicotine remains an important health concern.

What We've Learned About Vaping

When vaping first came on the scene more than a decade ago, many people viewed it as a relatively harmless alternative to smoking. Today, we know the picture is more complicated.

Research has shown that vaping can expose users to substances that may irritate and inflame the lungs. Studies have linked vaping to chronic cough, wheezing, worsening asthma symptoms and other respiratory concerns. Research has also raised concerns about the effects of vaping on blood vessels and cardiovascular health.

While vaping may expose users to fewer harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes, that does not mean it’s harmless. Researchers continue to study the effects of long-term use, but the evidence available today points to real health risks.

Why Nicotine Pouches Are Raising New Questions

Unlike vaping, nicotine pouches are still relatively new.

They do not contain tobacco leaf and do not expose the lungs to smoke or aerosol. However, they still deliver nicotine, and some products contain levels that may surprise consumers.

Because they are easy to use and discreet, some people may consume nicotine more frequently throughout the day than they realize. Users may also experience irritation of the gums and mouth where the pouch is placed.

Researchers continue to study the long-term effects of nicotine pouches, including their potential impact on oral and cardiovascular health.

Making Informed Choices

The way people use nicotine has changed, but the importance of understanding the risks has not.

If you have questions about vaping, nicotine pouches or other nicotine products, talk with your primary care clinician. They can help you understand the risks, answer questions and discuss options if you're interested in reducing or quitting nicotine use.