Why we’re flagging this: A nicotine-like chemical called 6-methyl nicotine, or 6-MN, has appeared in some vape and oral products outside Wales.
Last checked: 30 September 2026
What is 6-MN?
6-MN is chemically similar to nicotine, but it is not the same substance. Chemicals like this are sometimes called nicotine analogues — in plain English, chemicals made to act in a nicotine-like way.
What does the research say?
A 2026 laboratory study compared nicotine and 6-MN in e-cigarette aerosol. It found important differences between them and concluded that 6-MN should not be treated as a safer nicotine alternative.
What don’t we know?
The research is still developing. We do not have good evidence that 6-MN use is common among young people in Wales.
Seeing products internationally does not mean they are widely used here.
Source
2026 study comparing nicotine and 6-methyl nicotine in e-cigarette aerosol
By ASH Wales