A REVOLUTIONARY APROACH TO REAL TOBACCO EXTRACTS

Saabi’s approach to nicotine delivery, specifically with their range of Naturally Extracted Tobacco (NET) products, aligns with the broader movement towards harm reduction in tobacco use. The company emphasizes catering to individuals with mature and sophisticated tastes who are looking to transition from combustible tobacco consumption. Saabi positions itself as a support system for those making this change, offering Naturally Extracted Tobacco (NET) tobacco e-liquid alongside behavioral support through a vape prescription.

Given the context of the current legislative environment in Australia, where the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has introduced regulations requiring prescriptions for nicotine e-liquids, Saabi’s emphasis on a vape prescription aligns with the regulatory framework. The TGA regulations, effective since October 1, 2021, stipulate that patients need a prescription to purchase nicotine e-liquid from an Australian pharmacy or to import it legally from overseas.

Saabi’s commitment to a future free from combustible tobacco is in line with the harm reduction approach endorsed by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). The RACGP recognizes a role for vaping for selected smokers who have tried and failed with first-line therapy but are still motivated to quit smoking. Saabi’s focus on providing NET products as an aid in tobacco harm reduction is relevant in this context.

The RACGP guidelines highlight the lack of available evidence regarding the long-term health effects of nicotine vaping products (NVPs), their unregistered status as therapeutic goods in Australia, and the lack of uniformity in vaping devices and NVPs. Saabi’s role, in this case, is to work within this framework, ensuring that their products are positioned as part of a harm-reduction strategy and supporting general practitioners in implementing evidence-informed shared decision-making processes.

The controversy surrounding vaping in Australia, including concerns about youth uptake and unknown long-term health effects, is acknowledged in the discussion. Saabi’s emphasis on education and informed decision-making aligns with the precautionary approach taken by authorities. The company can contribute to the ongoing dialogue by providing accurate information about its products, their usage, and potential benefits while acknowledging the uncertainties and concerns associated with vaping.

“Electronic cigarettes have generated a lot of misunderstanding in both the public health community and the popular press since their introduction over a decade ago. These misunderstandings discourage some people from using e-cigarettes as a stop smoking tool. Fortunately, more and more evidence is emerging and provides further clarity. With support from Cancer Research UK, we search for new evidence every month as part of a living systematic review. We identify and combine the strongest evidence from the most reliable scientific studies currently available.”

Dr Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, Associate Professor at the University of Oxford, Editor of the Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Group

COCHRANE

For the first time, this has given us high-certainty evidence that e-cigarettes are even more effective at helping people to quit smoking than traditional nicotine replacement therapies, like patches or gums.”

In summary, Saabi’s approach appears to be in line with the current legislative landscape and recommendations from healthcare authorities in Australia. The company’s commitment to harm reduction and support for individuals looking to quit smoking aligns with the broader goals of public health, and its role in providing NET products alongside behavioral support can contribute positively to the population-level impact of nicotine vaping products. As the evidence base evolves, ongoing education and collaboration with healthcare practitioners will be essential for Saabi to maintain a balanced and responsible presence in the market.