Millions of American adults smoke regularly, but with health campaigns on the rise, smoking rates have been declining and seeing record lows. Though many have given up the habit, many more want to quit, have been making quit attempts, or haven’t yet been successful on their journey. Giving up a long-time smoking habit is a major challenge, as cravings and withdrawals become hurdles, even if one is motivated to give it up. As a result of this, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products have become popular tools to aid in smoking cessation, reducing people’s nicotine intake while helping to wean them off cigarettes for good. While many NRT products are available, nicotine pouches are among the more recent products to hit the market. These smokeless, tobacco-free products are gaining popularity among smokers looking to quit. Here’s what you need to know about nicotine pouches, the next-generation smoking cessation product:
What are nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches are small, white packets that contain tobacco-derived or synthetic nicotine, flavorings, and other additives. Users tuck a pouch under their lip for up to an hour, absorbing the nicotine and flavor through the gums. Nicotine pouches also come in various nicotine strengths. Depending on the brand, the nicotine levels can range from as low as 2mg to 8mg to as high as 15mg and beyond. Flavors also vary, and smokers can choose based on their preferences. Many brands offer cooling mint flavors like wintergreen or spearmint, but some offer more exotic tastes like coffee, citrus, and cinnamon. According to a study published in the Nicotine and Tobacco Research journal, the first nicotine pouch brand to be wisely distributed in the US was Swedish Match North America’s ZYN. These pouches were specifically designed with the US market in mind to cater to consumers. Other brands such as VELO, On!, Rogue, and Lyft soon followed suit and entered the American market.
How do nicotine pouches aid in smoking cessation?
Nicotine pouches are meant to provide a more pleasant nicotine experience without the harm of tobacco and smoke from traditional combustible products. For those looking to quit smoking, they can be used instead of cigarettes when cravings hit. Our “Five Tips to Improve Your Mood and Mental Health” post notes that withdrawal symptoms can greatly impact mood, especially when you’ve just started the quitting journey. Nicotine pouches help minimize withdrawal effects, making it easier to stay away from cigarettes. Users can also choose to gradually lower the nicotine strength to reduce dependence on cigarettes and nicotine altogether.
Where to get nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches are quite accessible in that they can be bought through multiple channels without a prescription. These products are available in many physical retailers, shops, and convenience stores like CVS. Buying nicotine pouches online is a popular way for people to purchase them, thanks to the convenience this brings. Online nicotine pouch retailer Prilla has a wide variety of brands on its website, with multiple flavors and nicotine strengths available. Those looking to purchase a tin or two can easily take their pick and have it shipped to their address. Fast and free shipping for orders of at least $50 ensures users can get their pouches quickly. Either way, both offline and online nicotine pouch purchasing is easy and fuss-free.
How it compares with other next-generation smoking alternatives
Aside from nicotine pouches, other oral NRT products are also growing in popularity now that more are considering quitting smoking. Nicotine lozenges, in particular, are also popular options being used to help curb cravings and prevent impacts from withdrawal. Nicorette and Habitrol are some leading brands in the market for nicotine lozenges, and some come with programs to wean users off nicotine after a few months. More nicotine lozenges are also set to hit the market as self-care product provider Perrigo recently received FDA approval for its nicotine-coated mint lozenges, indicating that more products will be available for consumers. While these alternatives are similarly effective, they are not necessarily competitors to nicotine pouches. Instead, both products can be used in combination to create a well-rounded quit plan. Nicotine pouches, though, have the advantage of being spit-free which is unique among oral NRTs.
More NRT products are expected to grow in use and popularity as more people quit smoking. Nicotine pouches and lozenges represent a new generation of smoking cessation products meant to help smokers give up the habit and recover well. For more on business, lifestyle, sports, and more, visit US Insider for more news and information.
