Nicotine pouches are small, pre-portioned sachets that contain nicotine, flavorings, and other ingredients. These products are designed for oral use, typically placed between the gum and lip, allowing nicotine to be absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth. Accidental ingestion of these pouches can lead to various physical responses, and understanding these potential effects is important for safety.
Immediate Physical Responses
Swallowing a nicotine pouch can lead to a range of symptoms, with severity depending on the amount of nicotine ingested and individual factors. Mild reactions may include nausea, an upset stomach, hiccups, dizziness, a mild headache, or increased salivation.
More significant ingestion, especially of higher-strength pouches, can result in nicotine poisoning. Symptoms can include a rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, and excessive sweating. In severe instances, individuals might experience confusion, tremors, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
Variables Influencing Severity
The intensity of the reaction after swallowing a nicotine pouch is influenced by several factors. The nicotine content plays a significant role; pouches with higher nicotine strengths carry a greater potential for severe effects. Swallowing multiple pouches or a substantial portion of one also increases the risk of pronounced symptoms.
An individual’s sensitivity to nicotine can also affect their reaction. Some people are more susceptible to nicotine’s effects, leading to stronger responses even with smaller amounts. Body weight and age are important considerations; smaller individuals, such as children, are at higher risk for severe effects due to their lower body weight. Pre-existing medical conditions can also exacerbate the effects of nicotine ingestion.
Steps to Take After Ingestion
If a nicotine pouch is swallowed, immediate action can help mitigate potential effects. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water, then drink water to dilute any remaining nicotine and aid digestion. Avoid inducing vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional or poison control, as it can worsen the situation.
Seeking professional medical guidance is important. Even if symptoms appear mild, call a poison control center for expert advice. The national Poison Help line is 1-800-222-1222, providing free, confidential assistance 24 hours a day. For severe symptoms like seizures, difficulty breathing, or unconsciousness, seek immediate emergency medical attention by calling 911 or local services.
How Nicotine is Absorbed
Nicotine absorption varies depending on whether a pouch is used as intended or swallowed. When used correctly, nicotine is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth, allowing for relatively fast entry into the bloodstream. This oral absorption is efficient, with about 50-80% of the nicotine being absorbed this way.
When a nicotine pouch is swallowed, the nicotine enters the stomach and then the intestines. Absorption from the gastrointestinal tract is slower and less efficient, with only about 10-20% of the nicotine absorbed from the stomach due to its acidic environment. The swallowed nicotine then passes to the liver, where it undergoes “first-pass metabolism,” a process that can significantly reduce the amount of nicotine reaching the systemic circulation. Despite this reduced absorption efficiency, swallowing a pouch still poses a risk of nicotine exposure and its associated effects.