Investigating how nicotine pouch characteristics affect their potential for abuse
Official title: Effect of Product Characteristics on the Abuse Liability of Nicotine Pouches
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11081622 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how different strengths and acidity levels in tobacco-free nicotine pouches make them appealing to young adults, especially those who use e-cigarettes, to help understand their potential risks and guide health policies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $162,902 |
| NIH project number | 5K99DA058241-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081622 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include young adults who currently use or have used nicotine pouches or e-cigarettes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use nicotine products or have no interest in nicotine consumption may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research examines the characteristics of modern tobacco-free nicotine pouches, focusing on how variations in nicotine concentration and pH levels influence their appeal and potential for abuse. By analyzing these factors, the study aims to understand why these products are attractive to young adults, particularly those who also use e-cigarettes. The research will involve assessing the behavioral responses of users to different formulations of nicotine pouches, providing insights into their long-term health effects and regulatory needs. The findings could inform public health policies regarding nicotine pouch usage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better regulations and safer nicotine products, ultimately reducing the risk of nicotine dependence among users.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into nicotine products, this specific focus on the abuse liability of nicotine pouches based on their characteristics is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Dae Hee — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Han, Dae Hee
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.