News and Events

February 25, 2014

As electronic cigarettes increase in popularity among the public so are the calls to Poison Centers regarding nicotine poisoning. Electronic cigarettes consist of a cartridge of water, flavoring, nicotine and various other chemicals. A battery turns this mixture into a vapor which is inhaled by the user. See television interview with New Mexico Posion Center's health educator on KOB 4.

The amount of nicotine contained in the cartridges commonly varies between zero milligrams (mg) to 24 mg and sometimes higher. Thus, the cartridge is not meant to be smoked in one sitting as, depending on the nicotine level, the cartridge may be equivalent to multiple cigarettes. Furthermore, electronic cigarette sales are not regulated in New Mexico meaning minors can legally purchase them.

Nicotine is a potentially toxic drug and ingesting large amounts can be extremely harmful, particularly to small children and adolescents. Small children are typically attracted to the flavored nicotine mixture, and may become exposed to the electronic cigarette liquid by either swallowing the contents of the cartridge or storage vials. The nicotine mixture can also severely irritate the skin.

Symptoms of nicotine poisoning include flushed skin, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and hyperactivity. In extreme cases, blood pressure and heart rate may plummet which can lead to coma or death.

If it is suspected that you or someone you know has been poisoned by nicotine, please call the New Mexico Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away for treatment advice! If the poisoned individual is having trouble breathing, is having a seizure or is unconscious call 911 right away!

It is recommended that all electronic cigarette smokers keep vials of the nicotine mixture, cartridges and all other parts of the device out of sight and reach of small children. Parents and caregivers are advised to talk to their children about the dangers that electronic cigarettes can pose.