Tobacco Products and E-Cigarettes

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Tobacco Safety and Smoking Cessation Products

Products used to help people quit smoking can be helpful, but they can also be dangerous if used incorrectly or if children are exposed to them. Nicotine is a powerful substance, and even small amounts can cause serious harm in young children.

When used as directed, these products can help adults quit smoking safely. Always follow instructions and keep them out of reach of children.

E-Cigarettes and Liquid Nicotine

E-cigarette liquids (also called vape juice) often contain nicotine and come in flavors that may appeal to children. Exposure can happen by swallowing, skin contact, or getting liquid in the eyes.

Poison center calls related to e-cigarettes have increased significantly, with many exposures involving young children.

Common symptoms of nicotine exposure include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Increased heart rate
  • Eye irritation

Smoking Cessation Products: Risks for Children

Many products used to help people quit smoking contain nicotine or other medications. These can be dangerous if swallowed by children.

Nicotine Products

Nicotine is found in products such as:

  • Gum
  • Patches
  • Lozenges
  • Inhalers
  • Nasal sprays

Even small amounts of nicotine can cause serious symptoms in children, including high blood pressure, seizures, and breathing problems.

Over-the-Counter Products

Nicotine Gum

Nicotine gum is available in flavors like mint or fruit, which may be appealing to children. Each piece contains 2 mg or 4 mg of nicotine. Even one piece can be harmful if chewed or swallowed by a child.

Nicotine Lozenges

Nicotine lozenges can look like candy and may pose both a choking hazard and a poisoning risk. Each lozenge contains 2 mg or 4 mg of nicotine.

Prescription Products

Nicotine Patches

Patches contain large amounts of nicotine. If a patch is chewed, sucked on, or swallowed, it can release nicotine quickly and cause serious symptoms. A patch may also cause a blockage if swallowed.

If a child may have swallowed or chewed a nicotine patch, call Poison Help immediately at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. If they are having severe symptoms (such as trouble breathing, seizures, or unconsciousness), call 911.

Nicotine Nasal Spray

This product contains highly concentrated nicotine. Even a small amount can result in significant poisoning.

Nicotine Inhalers

Inhaler cartridges contain liquid nicotine. Used cartridges still contain nicotine and should be discarded safely. If a child chews or sucks on a cartridge, poisoning can occur.

Bupropion (Zyban)

Bupropion is a prescription medication used to help people quit smoking. If swallowed by a child, it can cause serious effects such as seizures or abnormal heart rhythms. Even one tablet may be dangerous.

How to Prevent Poisoning

  • Keep all nicotine products and medications out of reach and out of sight of children
  • Store products in locked cabinets when possible
  • Keep products in their original packaging
  • Dispose of used patches and cartridges safely
  • Do not leave products unattended during use

If you have questions or concerns about nicotine exposure or smoking cessation products, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.