Tobacco cessation research and products under scrutiny in France

In France, new developments in tobacco cessation are emerging through both consumer products and clinical research. NFL Biosciences, based in Montpellier, has received regulatory authorization from the ANSM and the CPP to begin its phase 2 ‘Tonic’ study. This multicenter, randomized, double-blind study will involve 310 smokers to evaluate the efficacy of NFL-102 in treating nicotine addiction by targeting brain plasticity alterations.

Simultaneously, questions have been raised regarding the safety of the Breez stick, a French-made anti-smoking inhaler that uses essential oils to mimic the smoking gesture without nicotine or combustion. While the product holds Bio Ecocert certification and a toxicological report from Cabinet Expertox, health authorities like Anses have previously warned about the risks of inhaling essential oils, including respiratory irritation and the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Experts suggest caution for sensitive groups, such as pregnant women and asthmatics, due to the potential for repeated exposure.