What if I swallow a nicotine packet?

In order to be used optimally, the nicotine sachets must be slipped between the lip and the gum. However, some clumsy people have inadvertently swallowed a nicotine packet. What should I do if I swallow a nicotine packet?

Swallowing a nicotine sachet: what it involves.

The risk is graduated according to the nicotine content of your nicopods and the amount you have ingested. First of all, it should be remembered that swallowing one nicotine packet is not fatal in itself. However, the practice of swallowing several packs can be fatal. Swallowing several nicotine packets can lead to :
- choking,
- of nicotine overdose,
- intoxication.

Our article on the effects of loose nicotine explains how to prevent the risk of nicotine overdose.

What are the symptoms after swallowing a nicopod?

You may not have any reaction. However, if too much nicotine is taken in, overdosing or intoxication is possible. This can happen when you swallow one or more nicopods. In the case of a large ingestion, vomiting may occur within the first hour.
If these symptoms are present, it is best to consult your doctor:
- multiple emesis
- abdominal pain,
- hypersalivation,
- pallor,
- sweating.

I have just swallowed a bag of nicotine, what should I do?

If a nicotine sachet is swallowed, it is recommended to rinse the mouth with water and drink. Monitor for any symptoms that occur within a few hours. If your child has swallowed a nicotine sachet, rinse his/her mouth as well. If there is any visible residue, use a wet washcloth to remove it from their mouth. Children are more sensitive to the effects of nicotine than adults.

If in doubt, seek medical advice, especially if symptoms occur. You can also contact your nearest poison control centre. Inform them of the time of ingestion, your weight and the symptoms observed. For a child, mention his or her weight and age.
Remember to indicate the composition of the product and its dosage of nicotine that you can find in the product sheet available on Nicopouches.fr. In the interest of transparency, our labels inform consumers objectively and clearly on the composition of products.

Is nicotine deadly?

Austrian toxicologist Bernd Mayer has done the math. To reach the lethal threshold, one would have to absorb 0.5 to 1 gram of nicotine, i.e. about 50 packets for an adult. This is a difficult amount to achieve, as the body shows protective reactions well before this limit. But be sure to keep your nicotine packets away from children. The risk of intoxication occurs at a lower dose for them.
As a guide, Nicopouches contain between 1.5 and 20 mg of nicotine per sachet. An unsmoked cigarette contains 8 to 20 mg of nicotine.

What is the difference between nicotine overdose and nicotine poisoning?

Nicotine overdose is the administration of an amount of nicotine that can be tolerated by the body. Overdose is not fatal but causes temporary discomfort. It does not always require medical attention. If in doubt, seek advice from a health professional. Nicotine intoxication is the administration of a dose that causes the body to malfunction.

For your own health, do not attempt to swallow a nicotine packet or any other form not intended for this purpose. Also keep your nicotine products away from children.
To use your nicopods correctly, read our article.