Nicotine pouches helped me quit vaping – but now I'm addicted

Nicotine pouches are emerging as a concerning trend for young people, with many using them as an alternative to vapes. Johnpaul, a 16-year-old, initially turned to nicotine pouches to wean himself off vapes but found himself ensnared in another addictive habit. Despite trying to limit his intake to five pouches a day from his previous 15, he acknowledges the negative impact it has had on his life.

Lee, another teenager, shares Johnpaul’s sentiment, expressing regret over starting to use nicotine pouches. While the discreet nature of these pouches may appeal to young people, the addictive nature poses significant risks. Aleksandra, on the other hand, found the experience unpleasant, highlighting how the taste and effects can be off-putting.

The rising popularity of nicotine pouches among young men has sparked concerns among health experts and anti-smoking advocates. Despite efforts by retailers to prevent sales to under-18s, the ease of access remains a challenge. With the impending ban on disposable vapes, there is a fear that more young people will turn to these potent nicotine pouches as a substitute.

Experts caution that while nicotine pouches may be less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they are not without risks. Dr. Richard Holliday emphasizes the need for further research on the long-term effects, particularly on oral health. Dr. Zoe Coyle echoes these concerns, warning about potential gum recession and other dental issues associated with prolonged use of these products.

Sheila Duffy from Ash Scotland underscores the highly addictive nature of nicotine pouches, highlighting the dangers of easy access and attractive marketing targeted at young people. The proposed UK legislation to regulate the sale of nicotine products to under-18s is seen as a step in the right direction by anti-smoking advocates, although there are concerns about the timeline for implementing new regulations

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