Read articles from North America

September 04, 2025 by daily-pouch.com

The City of Baltimore is suing Philip Morris and Swedish Match for allegedly targeting youth with Zyn nicotine pouches through flavors, social media, rewards programs, and marketing them as tobacco-free. The complaint lacks solid evidence and makes questionable claims, such as linking adult products to youth targeting. The lawsuit is criticized for misconstruing basic marketing strategies and lacking substantial proof of deliberate youth targeting. The City seeks fines and remedies despite weak arguments, suggesting a lack of substance in the case. The lawsuit is seen as a frivolous attempt based on weak reasoning and misconceptions about marketing tactics.

September 03, 2025 by thewellnews.com

Many healthcare professionals find it difficult to keep up with rapid changes in nicotine products. A survey suggests the FDA could play a key role in providing guidance, but the agency has so far remained largely absent from the discussion. A recent national survey found that 93% of medical professionals believe the FDA has a duty to inform the medical community when a smoke-free product is shown to carry less risk than smoking. Nearly all (95%) said they would pass this information on to their adult patients who smoke. However, the FDA has remained largely silent on the issue, and many healthcare providers are unaware of which products regulators have reviewed for safety and efficacy.

September 03, 2025 by spectrumlocalnews.com

The FDA urges nicotine pouch manufacturers to adopt child-resistant packaging following a rise in accidental exposures, with 72% of cases involving children under 5, per research. Concerns include attractive designs resembling candy and high nicotine levels in pouches causing severe effects in children. The FDA suggests measures to prevent accidental ingestion, such as secure closures requiring adult dexterity. The agency stresses proper storage to guard against exposure to pets and kids, noting the addictive and hazardous nature of nicotine. Approved ZYN products emphasize child safety, highlighting the importance of safeguarding public health and product responsibility.

August 29, 2025 by fox11online.com

New regulations in Wisconsin ban the sale of electronic vaping devices not listed on a directory starting Sept. 1. There are currently 216 approved products. Hemp-containing, nicotine-free devices have until July 1, 2026, to comply. Violators face a $1,000 daily fine per device and potential seizure. The Department of Revenue manages the directory.

August 28, 2025 by cbc.ca

Caffeine pouches, popular among young people, can contain high levels of caffeine, reaching 200mg. These small packets resemble nicotine pouches and are placed between the lip and gums for quick absorption. Health professionals warn that excessive use can lead to health risks, including rapid heart rate and dependence. Companies selling these products deny targeting minors and claim to adhere to restrictions set by Health Canada. Experts stress the importance of limiting caffeine intake, with pediatricians advising a maximum of 200mg per day. Concerns also arise about potential long-term health effects, such as addiction and sleep problems. Regulations and clear health warnings on these products are recommended.

August 28, 2025 by cbc.ca

Caffeine pouches, popular among young people, can contain high levels of caffeine, reaching 200mg. These small packets resemble nicotine pouches and are placed between the lip and gums for quick absorption. Health professionals warn that excessive use can lead to health risks, including rapid heart rate and dependence. Companies selling these products deny targeting minors and claim to adhere to restrictions set by Health Canada. Experts stress the importance of limiting caffeine intake, with pediatricians advising a maximum of 200mg per day. Concerns also arise about potential long-term health effects, such as addiction and sleep problems. Regulations and clear health warnings on these products are recommended.

August 28, 2025 by missouri.edu

The University of Missouri researcher received over $3 million from NIH to develop treatments for substance use disorders, focusing on helping people quit smoking. Brett Froeliger, PhD, aims to disrupt habitual nicotine use through brain stimulation. His research investigates TBS's effects on brain areas involved in addiction and aims to identify optimal stimulation targets for therapy. Nearly 50 million US adults used tobacco in 2022, underlining the need for effective cessation programs. Froeliger's grant supports a 5-year study exploring how brain stimulation can treat addiction beyond nicotine.

August 25, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

A new guideline published in CMAJ provides effective options for quitting tobacco smoking, a leading cause of preventable disease and death in Canada. The guideline includes behavioral and medication choices as well as a natural health product, tailored to personal preferences. It aims to address the challenges of quitting smoking, which is highly addictive and increases the risk of various diseases. Clinicians are advised to assess patients' smoking status and offer recommended cessation options through shared decision-making. The guideline recommends against certain smoking cessation methods and suggests using e-cigarettes only as a last resort. Overall, the guideline supports efforts to reduce smoking prevalence and offers practical tools for clinicians to assist patients in quitting smoking effectively.

August 25, 2025 by cmaj.ca

Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Canada. The objective of this Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care guideline is to provide primary care providers with evidence-based recommendations on smoking cessation options for nonpregnant adults aged 18 years or older who smoke tobacco cigarettes.

August 25, 2025 by cbc.ca

A new Canadian guideline advises against using e-cigarettes or vapes as a first choice to quit smoking, recommending proven methods like medications and counseling instead. Despite declining smoking rates, tobacco remains a top cause of preventable cancer deaths. The guideline highlights the risks of vaping, citing lack of long-term safety data and stresses the effectiveness of nicotine replacements like patches. It discourages alternative treatments and notes the need for further research, including on the efficacy of AI-based therapy. Overall, quitting smoking is challenging but achievable with the right support and strategies.