You Can Overdose On Nicotine

It is no secret that nicotine is dangerous and can have a host of ill health effects on our bodies. The use of nicotine in any form has been linked to a variety of health problems, including certain cancers, especially of the lungs and mouth.

Other health problems associated with nicotine use include asthma, emphysema, allergies and an increased risk of developing many different diseases and conditions.

Why Do People Still Use Nicotine if it is Dangerous

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance. Individuals who smoke cigarettes or use other forms of nicotine find it extremely difficult to quit due to nicotine’s addictive properties. Nicotine is a powerful substance that is delivered almost immediately into the bloodstream once inhaled or introduced into the body. It is absorbed into the bloodstream almost immediately, at which point it travels to the brain and causes a feel-good effect.

The current theory suggests that nicotine can reach the brain in just 7 seconds after it is directly inhaled. The levels of nicotine that are absorbed in the blood stream vary, depending upon what type of filtering agent is used. The mechanisms that are used for introducing the nicotine into the body, such as smoking or inhaling, also plays a role in bloodstream absorption.

What Causes That Feel-Good Feeling

Nicotine is a powerful substance that has a chemical effect on the brain. Once nicotine enters the blood stream, it travels to the brain. The nicotine acts as a stimulant on the brain, which leads to the development of euphoric sensations. The effect is short-lived, and when the effects of the nicotine disappear, the brain stimulation also goes away. This is where some of the addictive properties come into play. In order to replicate those feelings of euphoria, individuals will continue to smoke or inhale nicotine, which starts the addictive cycle.

How Can Someone Overdose on Nicotine

Nicotine overdose can occur when nicotine levels are too high. When nicotine is at low levels within the bloodstream, it simply binds to brain receptors. If levels of nicotine increase significantly and become excessive, the nicotine will then bind to muscle receptors as well. When this occurs, heart rate becomes elevated, blood pressure rises, the blood vessels begin to narrow and there is increased motor activity. In extreme cases, the heart muscles or the muscles that are responsible for breathing can become paralyzed. Nicotine overdose can be life threatening.

What Do I Need To Know About Nicotine Overdose

How Does Overdose Happen?

Nicotine overdose commonly occurs in individuals who are attempting to quit smoking. Many individuals who are on a nicotine cessation program accidentally end up going too far with their withdrawal program.

In some cases, the cessation products end up administering more nicotine in the body than what was introduced from smoking. This can lead to excessive nicotine levels.

Nicotine Overdose Symptoms

There are a variety of symptoms associated with nicotine overdose. The most common symptoms include cramping in the abdomen, muscle twitches, a burning sensation in the mouth, a feeling of restlessness, agitation or excitement, headache, pounding or racing heart, and rapid breathing. If these symptoms occur during a smoking cessation or nicotine withdrawal program, there’s a good chance that nicotine overdose may be the cause.

Additional symptoms that are less common but may occur, especially in more severe cases, include weakness, vomiting, drooling or increased saliva, difficulty breathing and fainting. The most severe symptoms include convulsions, coma and breathing that stops. Mental symptoms can include confusion and depression. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you are utilizing a nicotine withdrawal program, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately.

Nicotine Overdose Prevention

There are simple steps individuals can take to prevent a nicotine overdose from occurring. When using products to quit smoking or withdraw from nicotine, it is important to read all of the instructions and safety materials provided with the product. This is true for both prescription products and products that are sold over the counter. If instructions and safety precautions are not followed carefully, there is a high risk of nicotine overdose occurring, followed by nicotine poisoning.

It is also important to refrain from smoking when using these smoking cessation products. Children are especially susceptible to nicotine overdose and poisoning, so individuals who use smoking cessation products should be sure to store these products well out of a child’s reach. The same is true for pets, who are also susceptible to nicotine overdose form these products.

What Smoking Cessation Products Put Me at Risk of Nicotine Overdose

It is not the products that put you at risk for nicotine overdose, it is the improper use of these products, or failure to follow the package instructions that can lead to a nicotine overdose. When used properly and all safety precautions are followed, smoking cessation and nicotine withdrawal products are generally considered safe and do not pose a risk of nicotine overdose. Nicotine overdose results from excess exposure to nicotine. Exposure can come from cigarettes, chewing tobacco, tobacco leaves, nicotine gum, nicotine patches, pipe tobacco and even from exposure to certain pesticides.

How is nicotine Overdose Treated

If you have any of the symptoms above and you think you may be suffering from nicotine overdose, it is important that you contact your health care provider and seek medical attention immediately. If your doctor suspects that you are suffering from nicotine overdose, he will likely use activated charcoal to try to absorb the excess nicotine in your system. Additionally, a tube may be inserted through your mouth or nose and extended down into your stomach, where it will help to wash out the stomach to remove excess traces of nicotine.