Nicotine pouches and vapes are relatively new tobacco products, but they are simply the latest way to deliver an old, addictive drug — nicotine. No matter how it’s used, nicotine is not safe for kids and teens, expectant moms or people who do not already use tobacco. While cigarettes remain the most dangerous tobacco product, causing most tobacco-related deaths in the United States, all nicotine is addictive and harmful.
Nicotine is highly addictive, and young people can start showing signs of dependence after just a few uses. Flavored products, marketing that makes nicotine seem “safer” and discreet packaging make it easy for teens to try these products without understanding the risks. Once the brain is hooked, nicotine can also make it easier to become addicted to other substances later in life.
Read the full blog to learn how nicotine affects the body, why kids and teens are at greatest risk and what steps you can take to stay healthy and protect the people you care about.