Soaring popularity of nicotine pouches linked to increasing poisonings among young children, according to new research
The use of nicotine pouches, a smokeless tobacco alternative, has seen a significant increase among young people, leading to a concerning rise in accidental ingestion by children. This trend is highlighted in a recent study published in the journal Pediatrics, which analyzed over 134,000 cases of children under 6 who accidentally ingested nicotine through various products.
Nicotine pouches, which resemble candy or snacks, contain varying levels of nicotine, from 3 to 12 milligrams per pouch. This high concentration of nicotine can be highly toxic to children even in small amounts. Ingesting just 1 to 2 milligrams of nicotine can cause serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, tremors, and more severe effects including seizures and respiratory failure.
The study found that nicotine pouch ingestion was associated with a 150% greater risk of serious medical effects and was twice as likely to lead to hospitalization than other smokeless nicotine products for children.
The growing popularity of nicotine pouches, their candy-like appearance, and lack of awareness among parents and caretakers about their dangers contribute to the increase in accidental ingestion. Dr. Natalie Rine, director of the Central Ohio Poison Center at Nationwide Children's Hospital and a co-author of the study, emphasizes the need for increased education about the risks associated with these products.
To prevent nicotine pouch poisoning, parents are advised to keep all nicotine pouches and products out of children’s reach and sight. It's also crucial to avoid using nicotine pouches around children to prevent imitation. Caregivers, including babysitters and extended family, should be educated about the dangers and safe storage of nicotine products.
In case of suspected ingestion, immediate action is necessary. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for professional guidance on next steps. While many pediatric ingestions result in minimal harm, recent studies show a significant rise in serious medical outcomes, including hospitalizations and fatalities from liquid nicotine.
The discreet, sweet, and smokeless nature of nicotine pouches has raised concerns among public health advocates due to their rising popularity among teens and young adults. First introduced in the US in 2014, these products are filled with nicotine, flavorings, and sweeteners, but do not contain tobacco. However, the potential harm they pose to young children is a growing public health concern that requires urgent attention.
[1] Rine, N., et al. (2023). Nicotine Pouch Poisoning in Children: A Retrospective Analysis of 134,088 Pediatric Exposures. Pediatrics. [2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Data & Statistics About Youth and Tobacco Use. [3] American Association of Poison Control Centers. (2023). National Poison Data System Annual Report. [4] Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Tobacco Products.
- The innovative yet concerning trend of nicotine pouch consumption, which resembles candy or snacks and contains varying levels of nicotine, has led to an increased risk of serious health issues, hospitalizations, and even fatalities among children, as suggested by a study published in the journal Pediatrics.
- In light of these findings, it is crucial for parents, caregivers, and extended family to become aware of the potential dangers associated with nicotine pouches and practice safe storage measures, keeping them out of children’s reach and sight, to prevent accidental ingestion.
