Social Media Discussions of Emerging Nicotine Analogue Products

A Content Analysis of Reddit and X

Bibliographic Data

ID21645348
AuthorsLouisiana M Sanchez (0000-0003-1270-6951, University of Southern California, corresponding author), Eric Shanazari (0009-0001-1703-0308, University of Southern California), Jennifer B Unger (0000-0001-9064-6603, University of Southern California), Adam M Leventhal (0000-0002-1217-525X, University of Southern California), Artur Galimov (0000-0002-9718-439X, University of Southern California)
Year2026
Pages1-7
Publication date2026-05-04
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueSubstance Use & Misuse (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1082-6084 • E-ISSN: 1532-2491
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/10826084.2026.2669191
PMID42080386
OpenAlexW7160101486
LanguageEN
References cited20

BACKGROUND: 6-methyl nicotine (6-MN) is a synthetic nicotine analogue found in e-cigarette and oral nicotine products that contains a methyl group substitution absent in nicotine, allowing it to bypass current U.S. tobacco product regulations, including exemption from FDA premarket tobacco product application (PMTA) requirements. This study analyzed public discourse on Reddit and X to examine how 6-MN is perceived amid limited research and regulatory guidance. METHODS: = 189) were inductively coded for thematic content and sentiment. Engagement metrics (upvotes, replies, views, likes, reposts) were summarized, and negative binomial regression models were used to evaluate associations between themes and engagement. RESULTS: Common themes included misinformation (35.4%), information-sharing (34.9%), and policy-related discussion (30.2%). Sentiment was primarily neutral (81.0%). Posts referencing misinformation, potency and addictiveness, and regulatory issues generated higher engagement on Reddit, while policy-related content was associated with more likes on X. CONCLUSIONS: Although overall discussion volume was modest, early discourse about 6-MN reflects regulatory ambiguity and uncertainty about health risks. Engagement with policy and potency themes highlights the need for surveillance of nicotine analogues and clear communication regarding their pharmacology, safety, and legal status

Ambiguity · Content analysis · Health communication · Misinformation · Nicotine · Public health · Social media · Thematic analysis · Tobacco product · Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors Study · Smoking Behavior and Cessation · Social Media in Health Education

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