Poison control centers are raising serious concerns as accidental nicotine pouch ingestions among children under 6 skyrocket. A recent study in “Pediatrics” reveals calls involving nicotine poisoning in this age group grew by over 760 percent between 2020 and 2023, with nearly all incidents occurring at home.
Although some cases involved chewing tobacco, vapes, and nicotine gum or lozenges, researchers identify flavored nicotine pouches as the chief culprit behind the increase. These pouches hold between 3 to 12 milligrams of nicotine, at the low end, often more than a single cigarette delivers, which poses a serious risk to young children. Even small amounts can trigger nausea and vomiting, while larger doses may produce high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, seizures, or respiratory failure.
Despite most exposures resulting in minimal harm, the study reports that over 1,600 children experienced serious medical outcomes. Tragically, two one‑year‑old boys died after ingesting liquid nicotine.
To protect children, the study’s authors advise avoiding nicotine pouches in the presence of kids to prevent imitation and always storing them out of reach.
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