Pharmaceutical Services Warn of Illegal Nicotine Products on the Market

The Pharmaceutical Services are warning about the circulation of illegal nicotine products, specifically nicotine pouches, on the market. These products, containing various concentrations of nicotine, are taken by users through the oral mucosa as an alternative way to consume nicotine.

According to the announcement, nicotine intake directly from the mouth can pose serious health risks, especially for young people whose brains are still developing. Risks include increased addiction, nicotine poisoning, heart complications, and developmental effects on the brain.

The Pharmaceutical Services remind that the Medicines Council, on October 2, 2024, decided that these products are considered pharmaceutical products, according to the Law on Medicines for Human Use. Therefore, a marketing authorization is required for their legal circulation in Cyprus.

To date, no authorization has been issued for these products. Consumers are urged not to purchase these products, as their distribution and sale are illegal and will be prosecuted.