Can nicotine pouches help you quit vaping?
Many people struggling to quit vaping are turning to nicotine pouches as a potential solution.
Image: Unsplash
Many people struggling to quit vaping are asking: could nicotine pouches offer a way out?
These small, pouches deliver nicotine through the gums rather than through vapour.
They look like a discreet option with no smoke, but the question is: do they really help someone stop vaping?
What are nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches are little sachets you tuck between your gum and lip. They don’t contain tobacco leaf (though the nicotine often comes from tobacco sources). The nicotine dissolves and gets absorbed through the mouth.
Because there’s no smoke or vapour, many believe they’re a “cleaner” option. But that doesn’t mean they’re harmless.
The pros and cons
Compared to smoking or vaping, nicotine pouches may expose users to fewer harmful chemicals since there’s no combustion or vapour to inhale.
Some people who try them report that pouches help reduce their urge to vape. A small study of quitting-vaping forums found that 13 users said they used pouches, and 6 of those said they vaped less often.
They’re discreet, portable, and can be used where vaping is not allowed - features that some users find appealing.
The cons
Addiction still exists: The pouches deliver nicotine, which is addictive. That means you might simply swap one nicotine product for another.
Heart and blood pressure effects: Nicotine can raise heart rate and blood pressure, so using pouches still carries risk to cardiovascular health.
Oral problems: Many users report gum irritation, sores in the mouth, swelling or ulceration where the pouch rests.
Chemicals and unknowns: Some pouches have been found to contain trace amounts of harmful substances (e.g. metals, flavouring additives).
Limited proof of quitting success: There’s no strong or consistent evidence yet that pouches make people fully quit vaping (or nicotine altogether).
Unpleasant effects: Some users say pouches made them feel sick, burned their gums, or tasted bad.
Nicotine pouches might help some people reduce their vaping. But they’re not a magic cure. Many users are likely to continue being dependent on nicotine.
They carry risks, especially to the mouth and heart. And there’s not enough solid evidence to say they reliably help people stop entirely.
If you or someone you know is trying to quit vaping, pouches could be part of the journey, but it’s wise to combine them with willpower, support, or other quitting tools. Just don’t assume they’re “safe enough” or foolproof.
IOL Lifestyle