Every smoker or snus user has likely experienced a nicotine rush. It is a sensation triggered whenever you consume nicotine. While it can sometimes feel pleasant and euphoric, a nicotine rush can also become overwhelming, leading to unpleasant symptoms like dizziness. Have you overdone it with nicotine and need to ease its effects? Read on for tips.  

What Is a Nicotine Rush?

A nicotine rush, also known as a nicotine buzz, is a common sensation that occurs when you consume nicotine. This happens because nicotine impacts brain chemicals, particularly neurotransmitters that regulate processes like mood and behaviour. Nicotine also increases heart rate, blood pressure, and adrenaline levels, which explains the temporary surge of energy you might feel after using snus or smoking a cigarette. 

The intensity and timing of a nicotine rush depend on several factors, with experience being the most significant. Beginners typically feel it within minutes of ingesting nicotine. In contrast, experienced users with higher tolerance may need more time and a stronger dose to achieve the same effect.   

When and How Does a Nicotine Rush Happen?

A nicotine rush theoretically occurs every time you use a nicotine product. Nicotine binds to receptors in the brain, releasing chemicals like dopamine and serotonin that improve mood.  

The main difference between users lies in how much nicotine they need to trigger a nicotine rush. Beginners with little experience using snus or cigarettes usually require only 2 to 3 mg of nicotine.  

In contrast, experienced users who consume nicotine regularly need stronger products. For instance, pouches from the Siberia brand, which contain up to 40 mg of nicotine per gram, are a suitable choice. Alternatively, Fedrs offers products with up to 65 mg of nicotine per gram.

Is a Nicotine Rush Bad?

A nicotine rush isn’t inherently bad. If you consume an amount of nicotine that aligns with your tolerance or only slightly more, your body will typically respond with euphoric sensations. You may also experience relaxation, improved mood, and a sense of calm. 

The problem arises when you don’t monitor your nicotine intake and consume a product that is too strong. In such cases, you may encounter various side effects, categorized as either short-term or long-term.   

Short-Term Effects of Nicotine Rush

These effects occur shortly after consuming too much nicotine, but usually subside on their own over time. Common short-term effects include:  

 

  • Dizziness – one of the most frequent side effects, often appearing first. After using snus, you might feel as though the world is spinning. Sitting or lying down for a moment can help alleviate the sensation.  
  • Nausea and vomiting – nicotine is potent, so consuming it in large amounts can irritate your stomach, leading to nausea or even vomiting. Some individuals may also temporarily lose their appetite.  
  • Rapid heartbeat – as stated above, one of the main effects of nicotine is increasing the heart rate. This leads to a faster pulse and, sometimes, dizziness. 
  • Sweating – nicotine stimulates adrenaline release, signalling your body to prepare for stress. This results in increased perspiration, which helps cool your body.  
  • Hand tremors – elevated adrenaline levels can cause stress, which affects almost every part of the body including hands that may tremor because of it.
  • Headaches – due to significant tension and the fact that nicotine can influence blood flow in certain ways, you may experience a headache after consuming it.
  • Anxiety or panic – these feeling usually occur in more sensitive individuals or those who have suffered from anxiety or panic for many years. Therefore, such people should carefully consider using nicotine products.

 

The good news is that you can easily avoid these side effects. Just consume nicotine in appropriate amounts and avoid overindulgence.  

Long-Term Effects of a Nicotine Rush

Long-term effects are more likely to affect individuals accustomed to regular nicotine use. These effects may not manifest immediately after using snus or smoking but can develop over time:  

 

  • Reduced receptor sensitivity – prolonged use of snus or cigarettes decreases receptor sensitivity, meaning you will require higher doses of nicotine to achieve the same rush.  
  • Sleep disturbances – nicotine increases heart rate and adrenaline levels, which can disrupt sleep quality, making it less deep and more fragmented.  
  • Irritability and nervousness – these symptoms often arise when your nicotine levels drop. If you don’t replenish them, withdrawal symptoms may occur.

 

Can You Pass Out from Nicotine Rush?

Yes, you can pass out from a nicotine rush, but this only happens in extreme cases where you consume a very high amount of nicotine to which your body is unaccustomed. If you gradually increase your dosage, there is no need to worry about fainting. Slowly raising the dose can also help avoid other negative effects like dizziness, headaches, hand tremors, sweating, and similar symptoms. 

How to Get rid of or Reduce Nicotine Rush?

Did you take a higher dose of nicotine and suddenly feel unwell? A nicotine rush usually subsides on its own, but you can reduce its effects by drinking water, lying down, and closing your eyes for a moment. This approach often helps minimize dizziness and can alleviate nausea or trembling hands.  

During a strong nicotine rush, try to stay calm. Stress can worsen the situation by causing your body to release even more adrenaline, which is already elevated due to nicotine.  

If you are looking for additional tips on how to stop a nicotine rush, consider the following:

  • Drink herbal teas – herbs have calming effects and can reduce nervousness, making them perfect for dealing with a strong nicotine rush.  
  • Breathe deeply – slow, deep breaths can calm you down and relieve dizziness, nausea, or other negative sensations. Ensure the room you are in is well-ventilated with fresh air.  
  • Eat something light – once the initial intense feelings of the nicotine rush subside, snack on something light. Fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C are ideal as they help neutralize nicotine and promote its elimination from your body.   
  • Cool down – if you are sweating heavily, open windows to let in cool, fresh air. Splashing your face and neck with cold water can also help reduce the sensation of overheating.  
  • Take a gentle walk – once you feel better, slowly move from lying down to sitting. Wait for a moment to ensure you don’t get dizzy upon standing, and then take a brief walk.

By following these steps, the nicotine rush should subside within a few minutes – though the exact time depends on how much nicotine you have consumed. The more nicotine you take, the longer its effects may last.