Health Advisory: Increase in Nicotine Pouch-Related Cases Reported to U.S. Poison Centers

America's Poison Centers^® has seen a sharp increase in cases involving nicotine pouches. These small, often flavored, packets are placed between the lip and gum and release concentrated nicotine. Nicotine is especially harmful for youth. Use in adolescence can harm brain development and lead to nicotine addiction. Accidental exposure of nicotine in young children can lead to life-threatening poisoning.

Nicotine pouch exposure cases reported to U.S. Poison Centers increased 202% from 2022 to 2024 and, as of August 31, 2025, there is a 91.7% increase in nicotine pouch-related exposures compared with the same period in 2024. While case counts increased across all age ranges, children under 6 years old accounted for the majority of exposures (73.1%).

The amount of nicotine in pouches can vary widely, and swallowing even part of one can cause poisoning. Children are at greatest risk of accidental poisoning because of the high nicotine levels, appealing flavors, and lack of child-resistant packaging.

Symptoms related to nicotine pouch poisoning include:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pale skin
• Agitation
• Sweating
• Rapid heart rate
• Tremors

Signs of severe poisoning include trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, and seizures.

America's Poison Centers advises the public to:

• Keep nicotine pouches and all nicotine products stored away from children. Even one pouch can be dangerous if swallowed.
• Talk to kids and teens about the risks of nicotine, including addiction and poisoning.
• Be cautious of flavored products, which can increase the risk of misuse.
• Report any bad reactions to your local Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or visit PoisonHelp.org.