Module 1:

 What are nicotine pouches? 

Nicotine pouches are small pouches filled with nicotine powder, flavors, and other ingredients, including toxic chemicals. Just like smokeless tobacco, nicotine pouches are placed between the cheek and gum, but they do not contain tobacco leaf.

The nicotine inside these pouches is extracted from the tobacco leaf, meaning they are made in a lab. This is known as synthetic nicotine. The pouches come in different sizes and flavors like fruit, mint, coffee, or cinnamon, which can make them seem harmless or less risky than other tobacco products.

You might hear nicotine pouches called different names online, in advertising, or among friends. Knowing these “slang” terms can help you recognize these products, so you understand what the product is and the health risks of using the product.

Nicotine pouches can negatively affect your health.  They can irritate the gums, cause tooth decay, cavities, dry mouth, and mouth sores. Over time, it can increase the risk of cancer.

Nicotine pouches contain high levels of nicotine salt, which can lead to nicotine toxicity and may cause nausea, headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, or even death. This is especially harmful for young people because the brain is still developing until age 25.  Using these products can affect how a young person feels, thinks, and functions. It also affects a young person’s mental health, and may lead to depression, anxiety, or trouble managing stress.  

While scientists are still learning about the long-term health effects of nicotine pouches, we already know that using them can expose your body to harmful chemicals and increase the risk of an addiction to nicotine. Knowing the facts about nicotine pouches can help you make choices that support your health.