Learning from Research: Snus Cessation May Cause Increases in Body Weight and Blood Pressure

Recent research highlights notable physiological changes following the cessation of snus, a smokeless tobacco product, revealing potential health implications. The study, conducted over 12 weeks and published in the Harm Reduction Journal, examined adults aged 18 to 70, most of whom used nicotine-based snus. Contrary to expectations, participants who stopped using snus experienced an average increase of 3.7 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure, despite initial assumptions that blood pressure would decrease after quitting. The unexpected rise was observed despite only a modest average weight gain of 1.8 kilograms, suggesting factors other than weight gain influenced the blood pressure increase.

The research team, led by Professor Fredrik Nyström from Linköping University, collected blood samples and monitored blood pressure at home throughout the study. While prior studies indicated that nicotine intake from snus causes immediate blood pressure spikes, cessation appeared to have a delayed but significant effect on longer-term blood pressure levels. The stabilization of blood pressure at these elevated levels persisted for months afterward.

The findings underscore the importance for healthcare providers to monitor blood pressure and weight in individuals quitting snus, especially those with existing cardiovascular issues. The study also noted that nearly all participants successfully abstained from snus during the period, with very few relapsing, which limits the ability to study the effects of restarting snus.

This research emphasizes the complex health responses associated with snus withdrawal and suggests that blood pressure management should be considered part of the post-cessation health care. It also raises questions about how reintroducing snus might impact blood pressure, warranting further study.

For more detailed information, see the original study: Peder af Geijerstam et al, Cardiovascular and metabolic changes following 12 weeks of tobacco and nicotine pouch cessation: a Swedish cohort study, Harm Reduction Journal (2025). source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-successful-snus-cessation-body-weight.html