Modified risk tobacco product

Tobacco products that are marketed as having reduced harm potential

A modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) is a type of tobacco product that is marketed and sold with claims of reduced harm or risk compared to traditional tobacco products, such as cigarettes. These products are designed to appeal to smokers who are seeking less harmful alternatives to smoking, with the intention of reducing the health risks associated with tobacco use.

Overview

MRTPs include a variety of products such as e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and certain types of smokeless tobacco like snus. The concept behind MRTPs is to provide smokers with alternatives that deliver nicotine with fewer harmful chemicals than those found in conventional cigarettes.

Portioned snus

The development and marketing of MRTPs are subject to regulatory oversight in many countries. In the United States, for example, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has the authority to evaluate and authorize the marketing of MRTPs. Companies must provide scientific evidence to support their claims that their products reduce harm or the risk of tobacco-related disease.

Types of Modified Risk Tobacco Products

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes are electronic devices that vaporize a liquid solution, often containing nicotine, which the user inhales. They are considered by some to be a less harmful alternative to smoking because they do not involve combustion, which is the primary source of harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke.

Heated Tobacco Products

Heated tobacco products (HTPs) are devices that heat tobacco to a lower temperature than traditional cigarettes, producing an aerosol that contains nicotine. These products are marketed as reducing exposure to harmful chemicals compared to conventional smoking.

Smokeless Tobacco

Smokeless tobacco products, such as snus, are consumed without burning. Snus is a moist powder tobacco product that is placed under the upper lip. It is popular in some countries and is marketed as a less harmful alternative to smoking.

Regulation and Approval

The regulation of MRTPs varies by country. In the United States, the FDA requires manufacturers to submit a Modified Risk Tobacco Product Application (MRTPA) to demonstrate that the product will significantly reduce harm and the risk of tobacco-related disease to individual tobacco users and benefit the health of the population as a whole.

Controversies and Challenges

The introduction of MRTPs has sparked debate among public health experts, policymakers, and the tobacco industry. Critics argue that the marketing of these products could undermine tobacco control efforts by encouraging new users, particularly among youth, or by discouraging smokers from quitting altogether. Proponents, however, argue that MRTPs can play a role in harm reduction strategies for current smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit.

Related pages

• Tobacco smoking
• Nicotine replacement therapy
• Public health
• Tobacco control