Potent Nicotine Alternative in Vapes Raises Regulatory Concerns

Synthetic nicotine alternatives like 6-methyl nicotine are emerging in the vaping market, potentially more potent and addictive than traditional nicotine. Unlike traditional nicotine, these synthetic compounds are not subject to U.S. tobacco and vaping regulations. This loophole allows manufacturers to sell vapes containing 6-methyl nicotine without FDA authorization. Companies like Altria Group and British American Tobacco have already noted the rise of such products, urging the FDA to regulate these new compounds.

In May, the FDA began considering the regulation of synthetic nicotine from an "agency-wide perspective." Research on 6-methyl nicotine’s health impacts remains limited, with studies indicating it may be more potent than nicotine. The synthetic nicotine market, exemplified by products like Charlie’s Holdings’ SPREE BAR, continues to grow internationally. Researchers and industry experts emphasize the need for more extensive studies to understand the risks associated with synthetic nicotine alternatives.