6-methyl nicotine

6-methyl nicotine (6-MN) is a synthetic small-molecule analog of nicotine, characterized by the addition of a methyl group at the 6-position of the pyridine ring. Introduced to the U.S. market in 2023, it has been utilized in electronic cigarette products (such as the Spree Bar) as a regulatory workaround, marketed as being exempt from certain FDA tobacco product oversight. Mechanistically, 6-MN acts as an agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), producing psychoactive and potentially addictive effects comparable to conventional nicotine. It is currently being evaluated in Phase I clinical trials (e.g., NCT06868368) by The Ohio State University to assess its pharmacokinetics, abuse liability, and safety profile. Preclinical toxicology studies have raised concerns regarding its potential for increased cytotoxicity and the generation of reactive oxygen species upon thermal degradation compared to tobacco-derived nicotine.

Brand names

MetanineMetatine

Other names

6-methylnicotine