Nicotine Overdose Symptoms

"Nicotine addiction has historically been one of the hardest addictions to break."
The American Heart Association

Nicotine was first extracted for its medicinal properties from the tobacco plant Nicotiana tabacum. It is an oily liquid capable of being soluble in water. The base nicotine burns at a temperature below boiling point and its vapors are combustive at 308 K (i.e. 35 °C or 95 °F) releasing the sedative effect. Probably the reason why it is more smoked and inhaled, rather than being taken in a liquid form. Excess smoking and inhaling causes nicotine overdose.

Why do people inhale nicotine? Because its feel-good factor is highly addictive. It is easily absorbed in the bloodstream, from where it travels to the brain. It is believed that it takes less than seven seconds for nicotine to reach the brain when inhaled directly through the nostrils. The amount of absorption in the bloodstream depends upon the quality and filter of tobacco, and whether it is smoked or inhaled. As a chemical, upon entering the brain, nicotine starts to stimulate it, producing good and euphoric feelings. But when the effect wears off, the brain stops its stimulation. To keep on the good feel, most people smoke or inhale nicotine. In due course, they get addicted and begin to experience nicotine overdose symptoms.

Symptoms of Nicotine Overdose

Nicotine overdose occurs when any form of nicotine, like, tobacco, nicotine patch, gum, nasal spray, inhaler, or cigarettes are taken in excess or overdone. In most instances, an overdose occurs when a person is trying to stop smoking or is on nicotine withdrawal program, and goes overboard while using smoking cessation products. The indiscreet consumption of these products (to quit smoking) sometimes end up pumping in more nicotine into the body than actually smoking it! Following symptoms are observed in case of overdose.

• Extreme anxiety
• Cold sweats
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Tingling sensation
• Confusion
• Panic attacks
• Depression
• Palpitation
• High pulse rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Fatigue and weakness
• Reduced appetite
• Diarrhea
• Stomach ache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Chest pain
• Hearing or vision problems
• Seizures

As nicotine has excellent medicinal value, it is also used as a part of treatment for various diseases. However, before taking such treatment, one should inform the doctor if one suffers from any health-related conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure or chest pain, overactive thyroid, liver or kidney diseases, diabetes, asthma, chronic pulmonary disease, etc.

An overdose of nicotine can lead to serious problems. When nicotine is at a low concentration in the bloodstream, it only binds to receptors in the brain. Whereas, when it is present in a heavy dose, it binds to receptors both in the brain and on muscles. This results in increased motor activity, heart rate, and blood pressure, as well as narrowing of blood vessels. As a fallout of an extreme condition of an overdose, paralysis of the muscles that control breathing or the heart, can also occur. Here's more on the side effects of nicotine gum and effects of smoking.

To prevent nicotine overdose, people should strictly follow package instructions provided with 'stop smoking' products like nicotine patches, nicotine gum, nasal sprays etc. Failure to do so often leads to nicotine overdose and subsequent poisoning. Another reason for overdose is continued smoking while using smoking cessation products. Therefore, smoking must be completely avoided if a person is trying to quit smoking by the help of these products. Also, such products must be stored in a secure place and cigarette bits must be disposed carefully to protect infants, children, and pets from poisoning due to accidental consumption.

Nicotine overdose is a serious condition which must not be taken lightly. If one experiences any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately. Timely intervention would be lifesaving.