New Research Brief: Nicotine Pouch Use in the United States: Increased Rates, Health Effects, and Considerations

In recent years, nicotine pouches have increased in popularity among young adults and adolescents. Our latest research brief, “Nicotine Pouch Use in the United States: Increased Rates, Health Effects, and Considerations,” highlights concern for youth’s health given rapidly increasing use trends, as well as key considerations for future research.

Nicotine pouches are a discreet and odorless tobacco alternative that can be used without spitting and be easily concealed and used undetected, even in classrooms or other restricted environments. The Monitoring the Future (MTF) study, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research and funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, has surveyed adolescents and adults in the U.S. annually on alcohol, tobacco, and drug use behaviors since the 1970s. According to the MTF study, the annual prevalence of nicotine pouch use among 12th graders doubled between 2023 (3.0%) and 2024 (6.0%). E-cigarettes may currently dominate as the most used tobacco product among youth, but the rapid rise of nicotine pouches (already the second most prevalent product) is cause for concern.

Despite marketing to the contrary, there is no safe nicotine or tobacco product. Nicotine in any form can harm brain development and lead to addiction.

Read our full research brief here: Nicotine Pouch Use in the United States: Increased Rates, Health Effects, and Considerations

For support quitting nicotine pouches and other nicotine products, visit the quit resources on the CDC website: How to Quit Smoking | Quit Smoking | Tips From Former Smokers | CDC