Other Nicotine/Tobacco Products Except Cigarette

Other Nicotine/Tobacco Products, Not Reviewed or Approved by the FDA

Tobacco lozenges and pouches

Lozenges that contain tobacco (Ariva®, Interval®), and small, pouches of tobacco (Revel®, Exalt®) are being sold as other ways for smokers to get nicotine in places where smoking is not allowed. The FDA has ruled that these are types of oral tobacco products, and are not smoking cessation aids. This means that the FDA does not have authority over them. There is no evidence that these products can help a person quit smoking. Unlike scientifically proven treatments with known effects, such as nicotine replacement products, antidepressants, nicotine receptor blockers, or behavioral therapy, these oral tobacco products have never been rigorously tested.

Oral tobacco products such as snuff and chewing tobacco are known to contain human carcinogens. These products cause mouth cancer and gum disease. They also destroy the bone sockets around teeth and cause tooth loss. There are studies showing potential harmful effects on the heart and circulation as well as increased risks of other cancer. They also cause bad breath and stain the teeth.

Nicotine lollipops and lip balms

In the past, some pharmacies made a product called a nicotine lollipop. These lollipops often contained a product called nicotine salicylate with a sugar sweetener. Nicotine salicylate is not approved for pharmacy use by the FDA. The FDA has warned pharmacies to stop selling nicotine lollipops and lip balm on the Internet, calling the products "illegal." The FDA also said "the candy-like products present a risk of accidental use by children."

Other similar smoking cessation products may not use nicotine salicylate and, therefore, may be legal. However, they still pose a risk for children if they are not well-labeled and stored safely.

Nicotine water and nicotine wafers

These products have been sold in recent years as ways to get nicotine in places where smoking is not allowed. They are not marketed as aids to quitting smoking, but questions about their safety and legality have been raised.