Health experts are calling for stricter regulations on nicotine pouches, warning that they are being sold online with youth-appealing branding and minimal barriers to access, raising concerns similar to those linked to vaping.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has urged the government and enforcement agencies to close loopholes that allow unapproved nicotine products to enter the market and be sold freely online.
AMA Vice President Associate Professor Julian Rait said nicotine pouches are being marketed in ways that attract young people, despite having no approved therapeutic use in Australia.
He warned that nicotine absorption from some high-strength pouches can be comparable to smoking cigarettes, with certain products containing extremely high nicotine levels.
Rait also highlighted potential health risks, including mouth and gum irritation, nausea, stomach discomfort, and high blood pressure associated with their use.
The AMA noted that no nicotine pouches are currently listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods, meaning they should not be supplied through regular retail channels.
The association supports proposed changes by the Therapeutic Goods Administration to block access through personal importation and other existing pathways.
Experts also warned that weak regulation has allowed rapid growth in unregulated sales, exposing gaps in enforcement around synthetic nicotine products.
They are calling for stronger national rules, improved online monitoring and takedown systems, clearer health warnings, child-resistant packaging, and better tracking of adverse health effects.
