Should you vape 6-methylnicotine?

Posted on September 2, 2024 By Colin

TO CIRCUMVENT AUSTRALIA'S HARSH RESTRICTIONS on nicotine, some people have been importing or purchasing vapes containing a nicotine-alternative, 6-methylnicotine. Is this still a good idea?

What is 6-methylnicotine?

6-methylnicotine (6MT) is a chemical related to nicotine (brand names include Metatine and HYT). It has the same effects as nicotine but is much more potent. 6-methylnicotine has been around for over 50 years, but there has been little research into it.

6MT is available at high concentrations (typically 100mg/mL) for mixing, and also in ready-to-use vaping products.

Some research suggests it may be more cytotoxic than nicotine, meaning it may be harmful or toxic to cells in the body. However, confirmation of this is needed. It may be as safe as nicotine but there also may be unknown side-effects.

See tweets here: 7 May 2024

Why is it used?

People use 6-methylnicotine in vapes as a substitute for nicotine to bypass the Australian restrictions on nicotine. When tested, e-liquids with 6MT do not show up as having nicotine. As a result, it has been legal to use or import it without a prescription.

6MT is also used in the US to by pass the absurd FDA regulations.

Recent research

An Australian study published today in the Medical Journal of Australia analysed nine samples of 6MT. The main finding of concern was poor labelling with unexpected variations in the strength of the product. This variation could increase the risk of getting too much 6MT with potential adverse effects.

Unintended consequences

The use of 6MT is an example of how harsh regulatory restrictions can cause potential harm by forcing people to create workarounds, for example using alternatives of unknown safety.  Sometimes this can lead to harmful outcomes. It is not yet clear if 6MT is harmful, but the possibility is there.

Is it still worth using 6MT?

Under the new laws, it is now illegal to import all vapes whether they contain nicotine or not. It is also illegal to sell all vapes outside a pharmacy. So there is now no advantage in using 6MT. It is safest to use vapes with nicotine from a reliable source.

Reference

Jenkins C et al. 6-Methylnicotine: a new nicotine alternative identified in e-cigarette
liquids sold in Australia. Medical Journal of Australia 2024