What happens if you swallow snus?

Snus is a nicotine-containing product originally from Scandinavia. It is used exclusively orally and, unlike cigarettes, does not need to be lit when used. Snus should never be swallowed, as it can cause unpleasant reactions in the body.

We explain what happens if you swallow snus and how you should best handle the situation. 

Why shouldn’t you swallow snus?

You can buy snus either as loose or pre-packaged portions. When used, the product is placed under the upper lip and, combined with saliva, creates a liquid called drip. The drip is swallowed, but the product itself remains in the mouth until it loses its effect and is spat out.

The products contain varying amounts of nicotine; you can buy them from mild to extremely strong, with over 30 mg/g of nicotine. The moisture content also varies; you can buy both dry and moist versions. Usually, the body absorbs only about 10 to 20% of the nicotine content.

Swallowing the product itself is not dangerous but can cause stomach pain and nausea. This reaction is common, especially for snus beginners, as they are not yet accustomed to the effects of nicotine. When trying snus for the first time, always start with a mild variety and avoid swallowing it.

What happens if you swallow snus?

The ingredients of snus are strictly monitored, and the products undergo several food safety inspections. Although swallowing snus is not life-threatening, it is still not recommended. The products are designed to be consumed in the mouth, not in the stomach.

If the snus pouch reaches the gastrointestinal tract, it can cause a burning sensation. Symptoms like nausea, heartburn, or stomach pain are possible. If you swallow many pouches at once, in the worst case, nicotine poisoning can occur.

Which symptoms should you watch out for?

During the first use of snus and when swallowing products with low nicotine levels, unpleasant side effects can occur. Usually, nicotine causes a relaxing feeling in the body because it increases the production of the happiness hormone dopamine. High amounts of nicotine in the body cause discomfort.

You should especially watch out for the following symptoms:

●      Headaches

●      Dizziness

●      Nausea

●      Vomiting

●      Heavy sweating

●      Trembling

●      Stomach cramps

If you notice these symptoms in yourself, you should definitely take a break and remove the product from your mouth. To relieve the symptoms, you can drink a sugary beverage. If the symptoms persist for a long time or do not improve, a doctor must be notified.

Swallowing snus in large amounts or with high nicotine levels can be dangerous. In this case, you should see a doctor immediately.

What should you do if a child swallows snus?

Although swallowing snus is usually harmless for adults, it is very different for children. Swallowing tobacco-containing products causes poisoning symptoms in children such as severe vomiting and is much more dangerous than for adults. The same applies to pets.

In severe cases and especially with very young children, consequences like breathing difficulties, low blood pressure, and unconsciousness are possible. If your child accidentally swallows snus, emergency medical services must be called. Make sure to always store your snus pouches safely to prevent such emergencies.

Swallowed snus?

Swallowing snus is not life-threatening for adults but can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. Snus is designed to be consumed only in the mouth and spat out after use. If multiple snus pouches are swallowed at once, nicotine poisoning can occur in the worst case. Symptoms such as vomiting, headaches, and dizziness are possible. In such cases, emergency medical services should be contacted.

Swallowing snus is especially dangerous for toddlers and pets. You should always keep the products out of reach of children and pets to prevent such incidents. When using snus for the first time, make sure to start with a mild variety until your body gets used to the effects of nicotine.