What is Nicotine?

Nicotine is an addictive substance most commonly found in tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, as well as in nicotine replacement therapies such as gum, nasal sprays, patches, pouches, and e‑cigarettes. Nicotine is naturally present in the tobacco plant and several other plant species.

What is Nicotine Poisoning?

  • Nicotine poisoning is caused by having too much nicotine in your body.  
  • It can occur when someone ingests, inhales, or absorbs nicotine through their skin or eyes.
  • It is especially dangerous for young children and teens, as they are more susceptible to the effects of nicotine.
  • Young children may unknowingly eat whole cigarettes or ingest liquid nicotine product from electronic cigarettes.
  • Most cases of nicotine poisoning reported to poison centers are due to accidental exposures in children less than 6 years old.

What are the Symptoms of Nicotine Poisoning?

Initial symptoms often appear within 30-90 minutes of exposure and can include headache, nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, sweating, dizziness, increased salivation, and confusion. Symptoms can rapidly become more serious and progress to seizures and coma, and death can occur.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, ingestion of even very small amounts of liquid nicotine used in e‑cigarettes can be fatal for a child.

How to Prevent Nicotine Poisoning:

  • Keep tobacco and nicotine products up, away, and out of sight of kids. These products may look, smell, or taste like kid-friendly foods.
  • Store products in their original packaging.
  • Use caution when refilling e‑cigarettes or handling liquid nicotine. Always wash your hands with soap and water and clean up any spills right away.
  • Safely dispose of liquid nicotine devices and e‑cigarettes. 

If someone has been exposed to nicotine, especially a child, immediately call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.