Nicotine products, with their colorful packaging and sweet flavors, can be attractive to children. And the small pouches can be easy to swallow. These are a few reasons nicotine poisoning in children is becoming both more common and more dangerous.
Parents and caregivers who use e-cigarettes, vapes or oral pouches need to understand the dangers of nicotine for children. Even a small amount of nicotine can make a young child seriously sick. “It is highly toxic, especially when ingested, and it doesn’t take too much. It can be fatal,” said Maureen Roland, director of the Banner Poison and Drug Information Center.
Why is nicotine so dangerous for children?
Nicotine is a powerful stimulant. It affects the brain, heart and nervous system. In adults, it may cause side effects like dizziness, high blood pressure or nausea.
But in children, especially toddlers, even a small amount can be toxic. The effects of nicotine on kids are more dangerous because their bodies are smaller and their systems are developing.
Products like nicotine pouches or vape liquids are often highly concentrated. If a child swallows them, it can quickly lead to poisoning. Even touching these liquids is risky, since they can be absorbed through the skin.
What are common sources of nicotine poisoning at home?
Kids often get poisoned accidentally when they find and eat or touch products that are left out in plain sight. “If they know where it is and it looks good and smells good, they’re going to probably put it in their mouth,” Roland said. Kids may be attracted to:
- Nicotine pouches: These small, white pouches of concentrated nicotine are meant to be placed between the cheek and gum. To a toddler, they can look like gum or candy, and they are easy for kids to grab and swallow.
- Vape pens and e-liquids: Brightly colored vape devices and flavored liquids may be attractive to kids. If a child opens a refill pod or drinks the liquid, it can cause poisoning. Just a teaspoon can be deadly.
- Traditional cigarettes and chewing tobacco: These old-school tobacco products may not be as appealing to kids as newer pouches and vapes but they’re still risky. Even used cigarette butts or chewing tobacco left in a cup can contain enough nicotine to cause tobacco poisoning.
What are signs of nicotine poisoning in children?
If your child swallows or absorbs nicotine, symptoms may begin quickly. You could notice signs within minutes. Watch for these symptoms of nicotine poisoning:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing
- Fast heartbeat or irregular pulse
- Pale, clammy or sweaty skin
- Tremors or seizures
- Drowsiness, confusion or unresponsiveness
Even if symptoms seem mild, it’s important to act fast.
What should you do if you think your child was exposed to nicotine?
If you suspect your child has ingested or touched a nicotine product:
- Call Poison Control right away: 1-800-222-1222
- Do not try to make your child vomit
- Call 911 if your child is having seizures or difficulty breathing or is unresponsive
- Save the product or packaging so medical staff can identify the ingredients and amount of nicotine in each dose
Quick action can help prevent serious complications.
How can you store nicotine products safely?
Accidents can happen in just a few seconds. Reduce the risk by following these nicotine safety tips:
- Keep all nicotine products stored safely, out of reach and out of sight of children.
- Use containers with child-resistant packaging.
- Never leave pouches, vapes or cigarettes on nightstands, counters or in bags within a child’s reach.
- Properly dispose of used products, including empty vape pods, chewed pouches and cigarette butts.
- Avoid using pouches or vapes around young kids, since they may mimic what they see. “If they’ve seen you do it, the likelihood is they’re going to try it,” Roland said.
Why are nicotine poisonings on the rise?
Nicotine pouches may be behind the increase in nicotine poisoning. That’s because these products are often:
- Packaged in bright, appealing containers
- Flavored like fruit, mint or candy
- Sold without strong warning labels or childproof containers
- Used frequently in homes and cars, where children can access them more easily
When should you talk to your pediatrician?
Contact your child’s health care provider if:
- You or someone in your household uses nicotine and you want to make your home safer
- You have any questions about nicotine exposure or nicotine and kids’ health
Contact the Poison Control Center (24/7, free and confidential, 1-800-222-1222) if:
- Your child may have been exposed to any nicotine product, even if they don’t have symptoms or symptoms are mild.
- You’re not sure if symptoms like vomiting or drowsiness are related to a possible ingestion.
- You want guidance on how to safely store or dispose of nicotine items.
Pediatricians and poison control health care providers can give you advice on poisoning prevention and recommend resources for families.
How can Banner Health help?
At Banner Health, we’re committed to helping families keep their homes safe. Our pediatricians and emergency care teams are trained to help parents create safer homes and to recognize and treat nicotine poisoning. If you’re an adult trying to quit smoking or nicotine, our behavioral health experts can help.
Worried about nicotine safety at home?
Schedule a visit online with a Banner Health pediatrician to learn how to protect your child and prevent accidental nicotine exposure.
