In an article entitiled: “Glaxo Aims to Snub Out ‘Dissolvable’ Tobacco Items, the Wall Street Journal Reports:
GlaxoSmithKline PLC called for the U.S. government to remove so-called dissolvable smokeless-tobacco products from the market, a move that shows emerging battle lines between pharmaceutical and tobacco companies aiming to sell alternatives to cigarettes.
Dr. Lawrence Deyton, director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, sent letters in February to both Reynolds and Star Scientific in which he expressed concern that dissolvable tobacco lozenges, strips and sticks are candy-like in appearance and may appeal to the youth market.
Some public-health groups have argued that the newer products may represent a promising way to help wean smokers off cigarettes. But groups including the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids have voiced concern that the products could hook more Americans on nicotine.
Scientific studies have shown that smokeless tobacco products are significantly less harmful than cigarettes. Smokeless tobacco still carries risks, including the potential to raise blood pressure and contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.
Those having views and on this matter should post them below; scientific studies and comments should be posted on the “Studies and Concepts” Forum at http://www.thecre.com/scur/
Source: Wall Street Journal http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703694204575518294130892622.html
Swedish Match commens at http://www.thecre.com/scur/?p=317
CREW identified TPSAC member, Jack Henningfield, as a exclusive consultant to SGK in their recent FDA filing. Given the position of GSK on new smokeless products, is Henningfield too conflicted to continue service?
In all fairness, shouldn’t Dr. Deyton sent a warning letter to GlaxoSmithKline expressing concern that Nicorette mini-lozenges, as well as the full-size Commit lozenges, are candy-like in appearance, come in yummy flavors such as Cherry, Cinnamon, and Mint, and therefore may appeal to the youth market? Nicorette gum is, of course, gum-like in appearance and comes in mint and fruit flavors. It is absurd to assert that any product offered in palatable flavors must be aimed at children, whether that product is made by GSK or by a tobacco company. Smoke-free tobacco products such as dissolvables, low-nitrosamine snus, and electronic cigarettes have the potential to save millions of lives by encouraging smokers to switch to an alternative can reduce their smoking-related health risks by up to 99%.
Kerrrching!
Now why would GSk want the market to themselves and why would their front ‘non-profits’ support that?
Who benefits if there is less choice for smokers and what is the cost?
Good post Elaine. Plus, what are the long-term effects of NRP products? Other drugs, like Chantix, have a checkered track record, especially among young persons.