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.