Social Media Discussions of Emerging Nicotine Analogue Products: A Content Analysis of Reddit and X.

Résumé

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: Using Meltwater, we collected publicly available English-language posts on Reddit and X referencing 6-MN from August 1, 2023 to August 15, 2024. Posts ( = 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.