Teenagers as young as 13 are being prescribed nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) by the NHS in Scotland due to a growing rise in youth nicotine addiction. Over the past two years, doctors have issued more than 1,000 prescriptions for nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges. These NRTs were prescribed to under-18s struggling with dependency on tobacco and vaping products.

Public Health Scotland recently revealed a 59% increase in NRT prescriptions for older teens compared to the previous year. This highlights growing concerns over teen nicotine dependency. Studies indicate that young vape users are up to three times more likely to transition to smoking tobacco, further escalating the problem.

Health experts and campaigners blame aggressive marketing by tobacco and vape companies for fueling this addiction. Sheila Duffy, CEO of ASH Scotland, criticised these industries, highlighting how harmful products have targeted vulnerable youth for decades.

To combat this public health crisis, the Scottish Government has introduced measures, including support for the UK-wide ban on single-use vapes starting June 1. A government spokesperson emphasised that NRT, which is approved for individuals aged 12 and up, remains a critical tool in addressing nicotine addiction. Unlike cigarettes or vapes, NRTs help reduce dependency while eliminating exposure to harmful chemicals.

However, critics argue that these efforts fall short. Scottish Conservative health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane has called for stronger protections for young people. Renewed demands focus on stricter enforcement of upcoming bans and more robust legislation through the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The bill proposes gradually raising the legal age for purchasing nicotine products with the aim of creating a “tobacco-free generation.”

The rise in youth nicotine addiction presents serious public health risks. This trend underscores the urge

Source: Daily Mail