Nicotine pouches in Western Australia

Nicotine pouches (external site) are small bags containing nicotine that is synthetically made or extracted from tobacco plants. It can sometimes contain other ingredients such as plant fibres, sweeteners, and flavours.

Nicotine is a dangerous poison, even in small quantities, and its lawful manufacture, supply and possession is strictly regulated in Western Australia under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014 (external site). Evidence shows nicotine is addictive and can harm the developing brain.

Nicotine for human use is classified as a Schedule 4 (prescription only) poison unless it is:

• in tobacco prepared and packed for smoking; or
• included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods as a smoking or vaping cessation aid.

As nicotine pouches are not listed in the Australian Register for Therapeutic Goods, they are a Schedule 4 (prescription only) poison. For more information visit the TGA website (external site).

According to the TGA, there is no strong evidence to support using nicotine pouches to quit smoking or vaping. For support to quit smoking or vaping:

• Contact Quitline (external site) on 13 7848 (13 QUIT) for confidential advice and counselling, or text ‘call back’ to 0482 090 634.
• Call the Aboriginal Quitline (external site) on 13 7848 for culturally safe support from Aboriginal counsellors.
• Visit Make Smoking History (external site) for all the best tips to quit and stay quit.
• Download the free My QuitBuddy app (external site) for helpful tips and reminders, and to track your progress.