Study Explores Whether All Synthetic Nicotine Is Created Equal

Nicotine pouches are getting more and more popular, which is why researchers at Ohio State University decided to test whether the type of synthetic nicotine used in these products makes a difference?

Many modern nicotine pouches rely on synthetic nicotine, which is made created in rather than extracted from tobacco leaves.  Although natural and synthetic nicotine are identical chemically, the synthetic versions can vary in how the molecule is arranged.

The Science Behind the Molecules

Nicotine exists in two mirror-image forms, or stereoisomers: S-nicotine and R-nicotine. S-nicotine is the form most commonly found in tobacco. R-nicotine, on the other hand, is less prevalent and less studied. Though both contain the same atoms - like a pair of hands, they are the same but different. Their different structural orientations can potentially influence how the body absorbs and reacts to them.

To investigate the differences, researchers compared two types of pouches: one made with over 99% S-nicotine (similar to leading brand Zyn), and another containing a 50/50 mix of S- and R-nicotine. Eighteen adult smokers were given both types, and researchers tracked their blood nicotine levels and reported experiences.

Unexpected Findings

The researchers anticipated that the high-purity S-nicotine pouches would be more satisfying and effective in reducing withdrawal symptoms. Surprisingly, the participants—who were all regular smokers but unfamiliar with pouches—didn’t report a preference. Both types of pouches produced similar satisfaction levels.

Yet, blood tests told a different story: the S-nicotine pouches delivered nearly twice as much nicotine into the bloodstream compared to the mixed isomer product.

Additionally, more users reported unpleasant effects—such as tingling or irritation—from the high-purity S-nicotine pouches. However, this could be due to the participants’ inexperience with oral nicotine delivery systems rather than the nicotine type itself.  Also, the study group was small - only 18 subjects – so it’s difficult to draw firm conclusions.

Why This Matters

As tobacco-free nicotine products rise in popularity, understanding the nuances of synthetic nicotine will become increasingly important. For people trying to switch from cigarettes to reduced-risk alternatives, the type of nicotine may influence how well these products satisfy cravings.

Products with high-purity S-nicotine may better mimic the rapid nicotine delivery of cigarettes, potentially making them more effective in supporting smoking reduction or cessation.

This study adds to the growing body of research questioning how different forms of synthetic nicotine affect both user experience and safety.