Learn about Nicotine Pouches

Health Canada has currently authorized only two brands of nicotine pouches (Zonnic and NEÖ) to help people aged 18 years and older to quit smoking. Approved pouches have a maximum nicotine strength of 4mg and are only available in mint and menthol flavours.^1,2

In BC, nicotine pouches are not available for general retail sales. Authorized pouches must be sold by a pharmacist or under pharmacist supervision and kept behind the pharmacy counter. They may also be sold through pharmacy websites where a pharmacist is involved in the sale.³

• Nicotine is highly addictive. Children and youth have a higher risk of building nicotine dependence more quickly. Nicotine dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms including headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sleep troubles, anxiety, and irritability.
• Brain development continues into the mid-20s. Exposure to nicotine during this critical period can have lasting effects on areas of the brain involved in attention, memory, learning, and impulse control, and are linked to cognitive and behavioural issues.⁴ 
• Nicotine use among young people has been associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression and with challenges related to mental well-being and learning.^5,6
• Nicotine raises your heart rate and blood pressure and may increase your risk of developing heart disease and stroke.⁷

No. Social media and advertising often promote nicotine pouches as a way to boost focus, energy, or performance. However, there isn’t strong evidence that nicotine pouches improve cognitive or athletic performance, and regular use can lead to dependence.

What does science say? Nicotine is a stimulant. When it enters your body, it signals the release of brain chemicals that can make you feel temporarily alert or focused. This may create a sense of improved mental or athletic performance, but it is only short-term. Over repeated use, you could build a dependence on nicotine, which means you'll need more nicotine to feel your normal baseline.

Nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco, but they still contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Some brands use nicotine extracted from tobacco plants, while others use synthetic nicotine made in a laboratory.

Adults looking to quit smoking should only use approved products and consult a health care provider for proper usage. They should not be used for leisure, or by anyone under the age of 18.

The most common signs of nicotine poisoning are nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms may include upset stomach, fatigue, headache, dizziness, heartburn, cold sweats, blurred vision, weakness, fainting, mental confusion, irregular heartbeat, palpitations, and chest pain.

If you suspect nicotine poisoning, immediately stop using nicotine and seek medical attention. Call Poison Control at 1-800-567-8911 for help in identifying signs of nicotine poisoning, or in an emergency call 9-1-1.