Event name:

Who are the users of Nic Nac nicotine lozenges?

Session Date:

Session Speakers:

Ed Carmines
Bryan Burd
Ian M. Fearon
Mary Johnson
Sierra Thomas
Nicco Magnotto

An online survey was conducted among current users of Nic Nac nicotine lozenges to determine their demographics and use patterns. The lozenges come in multiple flavors and two nicotine strengths (3 and 6 mg), and are placed between the lip and gum, dissolving completely in less than 60 minutes. Email invitations were sent to 26,482 potential participants, resulting in 342 (1.3%) completed surveys. 79% of survey participants were male, 92% not of Hispanic Latino/Latina or Spanish origin, and 92% of white race. Participants’ mean age was 41.3 years, ranging from 21 to 80 years. Only 3.8% of users were under 25. Approximately half of survey participants were former smokers, and only 17 (5%) participants were current established smokers. 56% of participants were exclusively using the lozenges. Participants reported using the lozenges on average for 27 of the past 30 days. 75% reported using the lozenges every day. The average use was 6 lozenges per day. The predominant reason for initially buying nicotine lozenges for the first time was curiosity in trying them. Nicotine lozenge characteristics (variety of flavors available, liking the flavors, ease of use, and able to use while socializing) were also reported as reasons for first purchase. Reducing smoking-related harms was also commonly reported. Among former smoker participants, 31% reported having used Nic Nac lozenges to help them quit smoking. This study indicates that the products are not being used by youth and that the products are clearly helping participants to quit smoking or other forms of tobacco use.