New measures restrict access to NRTs, aiming to prevent youth misuse while aiding adult smokers
Concerns are rising over the recreational use of Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs) by non-smokers, particularly youth under 18.
In response, Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced new measures to curb this trend, ensuring these products remain accessible only to adults using them to quit smoking.
Health Canada, through a Ministerial Order, is introducing regulations to reduce the appeal and accessibility of NRTs to young people. The new measures include prohibiting advertising, promotion, and packaging that could attract youth.
NRTs in new and emerging formats, such as nicotine pouches, will only be available through pharmacists and must be kept behind the pharmacy counter.
Additionally, these products will be restricted to mint or menthol flavours and will require clear packaging warnings indicating their use as smoking cessation aids for adults.
Minister Holland emphasized the importance of these actions, stating, “Stronger measures are needed to protect youth from the harmful effects of nicotine and stop dependency before it starts. The action our government is taking will keep these products available for adults who need them to quit smoking while making sure they don't get into the hands of youth for recreational use.”
Nicotine, a highly addictive substance, poses significant risks to youth, who are particularly vulnerable to its harmful effects on brain development, including mood, learning, and attention.
Even minimal exposure can lead to dependence, with youth more likely to develop addiction at lower levels of nicotine than adults.
NRTs are regulated as drugs under the Food and Drugs Act and must be approved by Health Canada with an appropriate health claim to be legally sold in Canada. Established smoking cessation aids like nicotine gums, lozenges, sprays, and inhalers will continue to be available in various retail locations and flavours.
Minister Ya'ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, reinforced the government's commitment, “Our priority is protecting the health and safety of Canadians, especially younger Canadians.”
“We know that smoking cessation products play an important role in helping adults quit smoking, but we need to make sure these products are doing as they are intended. We're taking action today to do just that, while protecting youth and non-smokers from the harmful effects of nicotine."
