Is synthetic nicotine less harmful?

Much still needs to be learned about the composition of Synthetic Nicotine and its potential health implications, thereby warranting more research. However, Synthetic Nicotine is still nicotine – meaning it’s most likely as addictive as regular nicotine spurring on frequent use. Nicotine use can disrupt brain development and negatively influence brain function that controls attention level, learning, memory, mood, and impulse control. It is best for younger people to avoid nicotine in any form, as the brain does not finish maturing and developing until the mid-to-late-20s.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now regulates Synthetic Nicotine, but this is a relatively recent occurrence, as previously, only products using nicotine from tobacco were regulated. This created a loophole for e-cigarette and vape companies to sell products made with synthetic nicotine without FDA oversight.

An updated federal law went into effect on April 14, 2022, clarifying FDA’s authority to regulate products containing nicotine from any source. The specific requirements of the law include the following:

• Not selling synthetic nicotine products in person or online to people under the age of 21

• Not advertising these products as being less harmful without FDA authorization

• Requiring manufacturers to submit their products for FDA review before they are legally allowed to be sold