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Nicotine ‘melts’: tablets that dissolve under the lip

Why we’re flagging this: A new nicotine format is being sold in the UK: a small tablet that sits under the lip and dissolves completely.

Last checked: 30 September 2026

What are nicotine ‘melts’?

One example is ZYN Melts. The manufacturer describes them as tobacco-free nicotine tablets placed between the upper lip and gum. The UK range is advertised in 1 mg and 2 mg strengths and mint flavours.

They are sold as consumer nicotine products, not as stop-smoking medicines.

Why does this matter?

A melt is different from a nicotine pouch. A pouch is removed after use; a melt dissolves, so there is nothing left to throw away.

It is another example of nicotine products becoming smaller and less obvious than a vape.

What don’t we know?

UK availability does not tell us how many people use these products. We do not have a reliable Wales-wide figure for use among young people.

Sources

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Journalists can use the ASH Wales Media Centre for Wales-specific data, background and spokesperson requests.

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