Could nicotine pouches help you quit smoking?

Nicotine pouches are gaining popularity as a safer alternative to smoking. In Australia, they are prescription-only medicines, available through pharmacies or importation with a prescription. Concerns about illegal sales and youth uptake exist, but there is no evidence of significant youth usage. Pouches are tobacco-free and considered low-risk, with experts ranking them safer than smoking and vaping. Usage among adults, including smokers and vapers, as a quitting aid is increasing. While there is little research in Australia, overseas studies suggest pouches are safer than traditional tobacco products. The government discourages their use due to concerns about youth access but currently has no plans to ban them.