Nicotine

Nicotine is often discussed in connection with tobacco and tobacco products. Nicotine is addictive, but it’s important to understand that many of the serious health risks associated with smoking are not caused by nicotine, but by the combustion of the tobacco.

Nicotine itself does not cause cancer. 

What is nicotine?

Nicotine is a naturally occurring substance in the tobacco plant. It has unique properties that both protect the plant and affect the human nervous system. Here is a closer look at its origin and properties. 

Origin and properties

Nicotine is an alkaloid that helps protect the tobacco plant against insect attacks. It’s also found in small amounts in other plants in the potato family (also referred to as nightshades), such as tomatoes and potatoes. Just like caffeine, nicotine affects the nervous system and has medicinal effects on both humans and animals. 

How is nicotine absorbed in the body?

Nicotine can be absorbed into the body in several different ways, and the method affects how quickly the substance reaches the brain and what effects it has. Here we will go through the most common ways nicotine is absorbed. 

Nicotine’s way into the body 

Nicotine can be absorbed through the mouth, lungs, skin, or nasal mucous membranes. When snus is used, nicotine is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth and carried via the bloodstream to the brain. This means nicotine from snus is not absorbed as quickly as it is from smoking, which makes snus less addictive. Nicotine medications, such as nicotine patches and chewing gum, also have a slower absorption rate and are therefore not as addictive. 

Is nicotine dangerous?

The discussion about the dangers of nicotine is often misunderstood. For most adults, nicotine in moderate amounts is not dangerous, but it is important to know which groups should avoid it and why. 

Risk groups for nicotine use 

Nicotine should not be used by: 

• Children and adolescents – They are particularly sensitive to the effects of nicotine. 
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women – Nicotine can affect foetal growth and pass into breast milk. 
• People with heart problems – Nicotine can worsen blood circulation problems and negatively affect the heart. 

Important: Nicotine does not cause cancer, which is a common misconception. 

How does nicotine affect the body?

Nicotine affects the body in several ways, especially by stimulating the brain’s reward system. This can have both physical and psychological effects. 

Effects depend on the dose 

At low doses, nicotine stimulates the nervous system and gives a feeling of alertness. At higher doses, it has a relaxing effect. Nicotine also affects blood circulation by increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which can feel like an energy boost.

How much nicotine is found in snus?

Snus contains different amounts of nicotine, depending on the strength of the product. Here is an overview of the nicotine content in snus and how it is regulated. 

The nicotine content in regular snus varies between 0.8% and 1.5%, while extra-strong snus can contain up to 2.0% or more. Since snus is a food, nicotine may not be added to the product. After the EU Tobacco Directive came into force in 2016, manufacturers are no longer allowed to state nicotine levels on their packaging, but some manufacturers, such as Swedish Match, publish this information on their websites. 

When does nicotine leave the body?

Many people who are thinking about quitting nicotine products wonder: When does nicotine leave the body? The answer is that it usually takes between one and two weeks for nicotine to completely leave the body after you stop using it. During this time, you may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms as your brain adjusts to the lack of nicotine. 

Common withdrawal symptoms include: 

• Irritability and mood swings 
• Difficulty sleeping 
• Headaches 
• A strong craving for nicotine 

These symptoms are completely normal and gradually decrease as your body recovers. Understanding when nicotine leaves the body and what happens during this time can help you better prepare to cope with withdrawal and strengthen your chances of quitting nicotine for good. 

Links for those who want to read more: 

https://www.swedishmatch.com/Snus-and-health/Nicotine

https://www.fda.gov/tobacco-products/health-information/nicotine-addictive-chemical-tobacco-products

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