Nicotine rush is a term that smokers or snus users mention quite often. Are you a beginner and not sure what it exactly means? We have prepared all the important information for you about what kind of feeling a nicotine rush brings and whether it has any negative effects. 

What Is a Nicotine Rush?

A nicotine rush describes the sensation you experience after consuming nicotine. What you feel exactly depends on your experience. It can include positive effects such as excitement and joy, as well as negative ones like dizziness or light-headedness. 

A nicotine rush occurs due to the release of endorphins, dopamine, and glutamate. This happens whenever you take a certain dose of nicotine, regardless of the source – snus, cigarettes, or vape. It is not even important what type of nicotine you take. You will experience a nicotine rush when using both regular and synthetic nicotine, which does not contain tobacco and is found in nicotine pouches. 

How Does a Nicotine Rush Work?

All nicotine products contain one key ingredient, which is nicotine. This stimulant gradually enters the bloodstream and from there to the brain. In the brain, it binds to various receptors and prompts the nervous system to release dopamine, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters.  

Nicotine also activates the so-called reward centres in the brain, which makes a person feel happier and more content after consumption. However, this is true only if you don’t overdo it and take a dose your body is accustomed to. 

How Will You Feel During a Nicotine Rush?

A nicotine rush is associated with various sensations. The exact feeling depends on the amount of nicotine in the snus or cigarette and your individual body. Most users first experience a surge of adrenaline, which is linked to improved concentration and physical performance. Additionally, you may feel a good mood and later relaxation.  

How Long Does a Nicotine Rush Last?

While a nicotine rush can be pleasant, it does not last forever. Neurotransmitters in the brain have limited capacity and become depleted after some time. The duration depends on whether you are a beginner with almost no nicotine tolerance or if you regularly consume nicotine and your body is more resistant to it.  

The product itself and the amount of nicotine it contains also affect the duration of the rush.  

You can notice the first effects of nicotine within 10 seconds, especially if you are using snus in the form of original portion. This portion is characterized by brown pouches that are slightly moist along with their contents. Nicotine and flavour are released almost immediately after placing the product under your lip. 

White portion and white dry portion are slightly different. The first alternative has slightly moist pouches with dry contents, while white dry portion has dry pouches and contents. Nicotine is released more slowly and only after the snus is moistened by saliva. 

Once the nicotine rush kicks in, it can last from 2 to 30 minutes. Here again, your nicotine tolerance and the chosen product play a key role. 

What Happens to the Body During a Nicotine Rush?

During a nicotine rush, several changes occur in the brain, including: 

  • Dopamine Release – as mentioned earlier, nicotine promotes the release of dopamine, which is directly linked to pleasure, motivation, and reward.  
  • Modulation of Acetylcholine – nicotine binds to acetycholine receptors, increasing the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and glutamate. This enhances feelings of tension and excitement.  
  • Stimulation of Norepinephrine – nicotine also stimulates the release of norepinephrine, responsible for the body’s stress response. Higher levels contribute to increased alertness, elevated blood pressure, and accelerated heart rate.
  • Activation of Reward Centres – regular nicotine consumption activates reward centres, increasing the likelihood of consuming it again.  

How Much Nicotine Do You Need to Trigger a Nicotine Rush?

The amount of nicotine needed to trigger a nicotine rush depends on you and your experience. If you are a beginner, you might feel quite strong effects even with a lower dose, such as 2 or 3 mg. On the other hand, if you regularly use snus and in higher doses, you will need something stronger to trigger a nicotine rush.

Medium-strength products suitable for more experienced users include brands like General. Their offerings include products like Classic Loose with 7.5 mg/g of nicotine or Original Portion with 8.5 mg/g of nicotine.

If you are looking for something more intense, you might consider these brands: 

Are There Negative Effects of a Nicotine Rush?

While a nicotine rush is primarily associated with positive effects, using a product with too high a nicotine content can also lead to negative effects, such as: 

  • Nausea and Dizziness – there are common for beginners who have no experience with snus. They usually occur because nicotine significantly affects and changes blood pressure. 
  • Headaches – some people may experience mild headaches after using snus or other nicotine products. This is due to nicotine´s vasoconstrictive effects on the brain´s blood vessels.  
  • Increased Heart Rate – nicotine promotes the release of adrenaline, which increases heart rate. It is common to notice heart palpitations or feelings of anxiety after using a strong snus or nicotine pouch.
  • Reduced Appetite – nicotine can suppress appetite, leading to inadequate intake of vitamins, minerals, and other essentials nutrients for health. 
  • Nervousness and Anxiety – nicotine can also increase nervousness or anxiety, especially in individuals sensitive to stimulants. 
  • Insomnia– nicotine promotes adrenaline and tension, which can disrupt sleep or reduce sleep quality when taken in higher doses. 

What to Do If the Nicotine Rush Is Too Intense?

If you have used a stronger snus and are experiencing an overly intense nicotine rush, do not panic. Remove the product from your mouth and stop using it. Take deep breaths and drink a glass of water. If possible, lie down, close your eyes, and stay calm. The unpleasant sensations should subside within a few minutes. 

Switch the strong snus you used for something weaker. You need to build your nicotine tolerance gradually, ideally by slowly increasing the dose. 

Why Do Nicotine Effects Weaken Over Time?

Over time, your body builds a tolerance to nicotine, which is why using your favourite snus may not produce as strong a nicotine rush as it did in the past. The only solution to achieve a more intense experience is to look for a product with a higher nicotine content. 

However, be careful. Do not increase the nicotine dose quickly and significantly. Otherwise, you may experience the previously mentioned side effects.