Is swallowing a nicotine pouch a cause for concern? The short answer is not usually but you should carefully monitor the situation. Read on for more about nicotine pouches and what you can do to avoid complications if you accidentally swallow one.

Nicotine pouches are small white sachets containing flavourings and nicotine. To use a nicotine pouch you simply place them between the gum and upper lip where nicotine is absorbed into the bloodstream via mucous membranes in the mouth. Typically nicotine pouches are placed in the mouth for around 30 minutes.

You should not swallow nicotine pouches as they can cause digestive upset when nicotine is absorbed directly into the stomach rather than the bloodstream. Additionally, if you swallow a nicotine pouch it may not work as well as your stomach acid will destroy the nicotine before it can reach your bloodstream effectively.

After swallowing a nicotine pouch you may experience:

• Nausea 

• Heartburn

• Stomach pain

• Dizziness

• Hiccupping

These effects should pass within 2 hours of swallowing a pouch but if multiple have been swallowed then they may last longer and cause more intense symptoms.  

Don't panic! Swallowing a nicotine pouch is not usually an emergency but there are some steps you can take to minimize discomfort:

• Drink lots of water: Drinking water helps dilute the nicotine pouch in your stomach, lessening any negative digestive effects.

• Sit up: Doctors recommend sitting upright to avoid the risk of heartburn. Don't lie down for a couple of hours after swallowing a nicotine pouch.

• Eat something light: Having a light snack will also help to line your stomach, also helping reduce symptoms like nausea and heartburn.

• Track any symptoms: Any side effects should begin to lessen within a couple of hours. If they don`t you should seek medical attention.

Sometimes people may experience more intense effects where they need to seek medical attention, especially if they've swallowed multiple pouches. Seek immediate medical attention if:

• A pet or child has swallowed a pouch. Animals and children are far more sensitive to the effects of nicotine so contact 999 or an emergency vet if you think a nicotine pouch has been swallowed accidentally. 

• You experience confusion or agitation.

• You are vomiting repeatedly.

• Your heart rate feels very fast or erratic.

• You have trouble breathing or seizures.

Usually swallowing a nicotine pouch isn't an emergency situation but can have some pretty unpleasant side effects. If you swallow a nicotine pouch make sure you monitor any side effects and seek medical attention if your symptoms are very intense or long lasting.