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UAE approves tobacco-free nicotine pouches to help smokers quit cigarettes
Tobacco-free nicotine pouches will be legally available for purchase in the UAE starting July 29, when a new law regulating the product comes into effect.
A UAE Cabinet resolution outlines the technical standards for this smoking alternative, designed to help people quit cigarettes.
Dr Sanam Mallick, Consultant in Family Medicine at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, described the pouches as small, smokeless products that contain nicotine but no tobacco.
'People place them between their gum and lips to absorb nicotine without smoking or chewing tobacco. They're popular as a discreet alternative to cigarettes or chewing tobacco. Nicotine pouches contain nicotine, the same chemical that we find in tobacco,' he told Khaleej Times.
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Nicotine is an addictive substance. These pouches release dopamine, the 'feel-good hormone', which helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, thereby aiding smoking cessation.
'Nicotine pouches can be a valuable tool for some people trying to quit smoking, but whether they're a good option compared to other smoking cessation methods depends on a few factors,' Dr Mallick explained.
One benefit is the absence of smoke inhalation, which significantly lowers the risk of lung damage compared to traditional smoking. However, like all nicotine products, the pouches can be addictive.
'They still contain nicotine, so they don't remove the addiction, just the smoking behaviour. (Additionally), because they're relatively new, the long-term health impacts are still being studied,' he added.
On their effectiveness, Dr Mallick noted that while some smokers report success in using pouches to gradually reduce or replace cigarettes, others struggle with the continued oral habit. 'Others may find the oral fixation or habit harder to break, since pouches still involve placing something in the mouth (similar to chewing tobacco).'
Traditional nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) such as patches, gum, and lozenges are known to increase quit rates by 50 to 70 per cent. 'Nicotine pouches might offer similar benefits, but without long-term studies, their effectiveness compared to these therapies is less certain.'
Patches vs pouches
Shiraz Khan, Chief Operating Officer at Aster Retail GCC, explained that nicotine from pouches is absorbed through the lining of the mouth.
'In contrast, nicotine patches are transdermal products applied to the skin. They slowly release nicotine into the bloodstream over a period of time, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings,' he said. 'The key difference lies in the method of delivery. Pouches work via oral mucosal absorption, while patches deliver nicotine through the skin.'
NRTs such as patches, gum, and lozenges are already available in UAE pharmacies. 'These products are typically available over the counter (OTC) and do not require a prescription. However, some higher-dose patches or combination therapies might be recommended under a healthcare provider's supervision,' Khan said.
He added that NRTs are a popular choice among smokers looking to quit. 'Products like nicotine gums and lozenges have seen rapid growth due to their discreet use, lack of smoke, and perceived lower harm compared to traditional tobacco products.'
All nicotine products in the UAE must carry health warnings and age restriction labels, with sales prohibited to those under 18.
'Packaging and labelling must comply with UAE-specific guidelines, including Arabic labelling. Only licensed retailers or pharmacies may sell these products,' Khan added.
Tobacco's toll
Globally, tobacco remains the leading preventable cause of disease and premature death, according to a guide released last year by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap). The global tobacco epidemic claims nearly eight million lives annually, making it one of the most serious public health threats.
The National Health Survey of 2018 found that nearly 16 per cent of men and 2.5 per cent of women in the UAE are smokers, the guide said.
To support tobacco cessation efforts, authorities said that counselling and psychological support will be offered to individuals attempting to quit all forms of tobacco, including e-cigarettes.
