Nicotine pouches, introduced to the United States in 2014, are rectangular-shaped, dissolvable microfiber pouches filled with nicotine powder (synthetic or extracted from tobacco leaf). A user typically places a pouch between their lip or cheek and their gums. The nicotine seeps into the bloodstream via the membranes lining these areas. Nicotine can also infiltrate a person’s system if the juice is swallowed. Generally, a pouch is used for 15–45 minutes, then disposed of.
Like vaping, oral nicotine pouches are frequently marketed as an alternative to traditional smoking products — a way to bypass tobacco carcinogens. They come in flavors such as cinnamon, berry, citrus, spearmint, and peppermint to make things more interesting. The problem is, nicotine pouches often spur health concerns of their own, including the following:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially for those new to nicotine products.
- Nausea and/or vomiting.
- Symptoms of depression or anxiety.
- Headaches, including migraines.
- Cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal conditions.
- Reproductive issues.
- A suppressed immune response.
- Mouth and throat irritation, among other oral health concerns.
- Addiction.
In November 2024, a class action lawsuit was filed against Swedish Match North America and its parent company, Philip Morris International, over Zyn, its nicotine pouch product. The class action alleges that Philip Morris marketed aggressively to minors, downplayed potential health risks, failed to provide adequate warnings on its packaging, and employed deceptive marketing practices, including leading consumers to believe that the pouches were free from harmful chemicals and posed fewer risks than traditional tobacco products.
If you believe you have been harmed by nicotine pouches, contact our firm for skilled and thoughtful guidance on the matter.
