Nicotine Pouch Poisonings in Children Surged more than 760%

Accidental poisonings from nicotine pouches among young children have surged more than 760% between 2020 and 2023, according to a new study by researchers at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio.

The study reviewed over 134,000 cases of nicotine ingestion in kids under 6 and found that, while exposures from products like vapes and nicotine gum declined, cases involving nicotine pouches skyrocketed.

Why These Products Are So Risky for Kids

Nicotine pouches are tiny white packets tucked between the gums and lips. They are smokeless and often flavored. This makes them easy for kids to mistake them for candy.

“There’s nothing telling the kid, ‘this is bad, you should spit it out,’” explained Dr. Natalie Rine, director of the Central Ohio Poison Center. Even small doses of nicotine can be dangerous to a child, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and tremors.

Growing Popularity Among Teens Raises Concerns

While the overall number of users is still small, just 0.5% of Americans use nicotine pouches, they’re becoming increasingly popular among young people.

The CDC reports they’re now the second most-used nicotine product among teens, with use doubling between 2021 and 2024. Their appeal lies in their discreetness, sweet flavors, and lack of tobacco.

FDA Gives Green Light to Some Products

In January, the FDA authorized the sale of 10 flavored Zyn nicotine pouches, saying they could help adult smokers reduce harm compared to cigarettes.

These products contain fewer toxic substances than traditional tobacco, but experts worry that easier access and flavored varieties could further normalize their use among youth.

Even One Pouch Can Be Dangerous for a Child

Nicotine levels in pouches typically range from 3 to 12 milligrams, thats enough to surpass what’s found in a cigarette. According to the National Library of Medicine, ingesting just 1 to 2 milligrams of nicotine can be harmful to a child.

The study found pouches led to significantly more serious health effects and hospitalizations than other smokeless products like e-liquids.

Preventable But Still Deadly

Though most cases of pediatric nicotine ingestion caused only mild symptoms, more than 1,600 children experienced serious medical outcomes.

Two children died after ingesting liquid nicotine. The study emphasizes that these poisonings are preventable with better storage and awareness.

What Parents Can Do to Protect Kids

Philip Morris International, maker of Zyn, states its products include child-resistant packaging and clear warnings. Still, Dr. Rine recommends keeping all nicotine products out of sight and reach, avoiding use around children, and ensuring caregivers are aware of the risks.

If a child may have ingested nicotine, call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.