Ingesting vape juice poses a significant health risk, particularly given its increasing presence in households. This liquid contains components that can be harmful or even fatal if swallowed. Understanding its composition, recognizing the signs of ingestion, and knowing immediate actions are important for protecting individuals.
Understanding Vape Juice Components
Vape juice consists of several ingredients, each carrying potential hazards upon ingestion. Nicotine is the primary concern due to its high toxicity when swallowed. The concentration of nicotine in vape juice can vary widely, with some products containing up to 100 mg/mL.
When ingested, nicotine is rapidly absorbed into the body, affecting the central nervous system, neuromuscular system, and autonomic functions. Even a small amount, such as 1.8 milligrams, can lead to adverse effects, and for a typical adult, a lethal dose can range from 50 to 60 milligrams. Children are especially susceptible to severe poisoning due to their lower body weight, with a lethal dose for them potentially as low as 6 milligrams.
Propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) serve as the base liquids in vape juice. While generally recognized as safe for consumption and used in various food and pharmaceutical products, ingesting larger quantities can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur. Although less acutely toxic than nicotine, prolonged or high-dose ingestion of PG, particularly in children, has been linked to more severe issues like seizures and lactic acidosis.
Flavorings are another component. Though many are considered food-grade, their safety when ingested in concentrated forms found in vape juice is not fully understood. Some flavorings, such as levomenthol, can be toxic if swallowed, potentially causing stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, impaired coordination, and even unconsciousness.
Recognizing Symptoms of Ingestion
Symptoms of vape juice ingestion can manifest quickly and vary in severity based on the amount ingested and nicotine concentration. Mild symptoms often appear within 15 to 60 minutes after exposure and may include a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, increased salivation, and headache. Dizziness, sweating, and confusion can also occur. These milder effects commonly arise from smaller ingestions or lower nicotine strengths.
More moderate to severe symptoms indicate significant nicotine poisoning and demand immediate medical attention. These can include a rapid heart rate (tachycardia) followed by a slowed heart rate (bradycardia), irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia), and elevated or decreased blood pressure. Neurological effects such as tremors, muscle weakness, loss of coordination, seizures, and agitation may also develop. In severe cases, individuals might experience respiratory distress, loss of consciousness, or even fall into a coma. Symptoms can persist for several hours, or up to 72 hours in very severe cases.
Immediate Steps and Medical Attention
If vape juice has been ingested, immediate action is important. If the person is conscious and able, immediately rinse their mouth thoroughly with water to remove any remaining liquid. It is important not to induce vomiting, as this can cause further harm.
The next step is to contact a poison control center or emergency services without delay. In the United States, the Poison Help Line can be reached at 1-800-222-1222. For severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or loss of consciousness, emergency services like 911 should be called immediately.
When speaking with poison control or emergency responders, provide as much detail as possible. This includes the estimated amount of vape juice ingested, the specific brand or type of the product, and its nicotine concentration if known. Information about the person’s age, weight, and any symptoms they are experiencing is also important for guiding treatment. Medical professionals will assess the situation and may recommend monitoring, activated charcoal, or other supportive care depending on the severity of the poisoning. To prevent future incidents, especially involving children, it is important to store all vape products, including liquids, in a secure, locked location, out of reach and sight.