Proposed exclusion of nicotine gel, liquid from poison control regulations undermines public health

THE Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) understands that there will be a meeting soon by the Poisons Board to discuss the exemption of the control of nicotine under Poisons Act 1952 to allow it to be taxed by the government.

MPS strongly opposes the proposal to exclude liquid or gel nicotine under the Poisons Act 1952. We believe that such a proposal would be detrimental to the health and safety of the Malaysian public and is not in the national interest.

As pharmacists, we are committed to promoting public health and safety. Nicotine, whether in liquid or gel form, is a highly addictive substance that poses significant health risks.

Studies have shown that nicotine use can lead to cardiovascular disease, lung disease, and cancer. Additionally, nicotine use during pregnancy can harm the developing fetus and lead to complications during childbirth.

In Malaysia, the use of ecigarettes and vaping has become increasingly popular among young people. According to a study by the Health Ministry, the prevalence of ecigarette use among adults in Malaysia has increased from 0.3% in 2015 to 1.3% in 2019.

The study also found that the majority of ecigarette users in Malaysia were young adults between the ages of 18 and 24.

The MPS is deeply concerned about the impact of vaping on public health.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), vaping has been linked to more than 40 deaths worldwide, with over 2,000 cases of lung injury reported in the United States alone.

In Malaysia, there have been several cases of lung injury and even death related to the use of

ecigarettes and vaping.

The Poisons Act 1952 was established to protect the public from the dangers of hazardous substances, including nicotine, and to regulate their sale, supply, and use.

MPS believes that the proposed exclusion of nicotine gel or liquid from poison control regulations under the Poisons Act 1952 would undermine efforts to protect public health and safety.

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that should be regulated in the same way as other poisons. Excluding it from the Poisons Act 1952 would send the wrong message to the public, particularly young people, and could lead to an increase in the use of ecigarettes and vaping.

The MPS calls on the government to reject this proposal and to take action to protect public health and safety.

We urge the government to strengthen regulations around

ecigarettes and vaping, including restrictions on marketing and advertising, and to increase public education about the dangers of nicotine use.

Malaysian Pharmacists Society