What Happens If You Drink Vape Juice? Effects and Risks Explained
Understanding Vape Juice and Its Composition
Vape juice, also known as e-liquid or e juice, is a liquid solution of nicotine used in e-cigarettes to create a vapor that is inhaled.
E-liquid typically contains propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and optional nicotine or cannabis.
Nicotine is a popular ingredient in vape juice, but it can be toxic in large doses.
Flavorings Artificial or natural flavoring compounds added to enhance taste. These can vary widely and may contain compounds that are safe to taste or inhale but potentially harmful if ingested. Many flavorings are classified as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for food consumption but are not tested for inhalation.
- Understanding Vape Juice and Its Composition
- The Dangers of Drinking Vape Juice
- Risks of Nicotine Overdose
- Non-Nicotine E-Liquid Concerns
- Reading Vape Juice Labels Safely
- Child Safety and Vape Products
- Preventing Accidental Ingestion of Vape Juice
- What to Do If Someone Drinks Vape Juice
- Safety Precautions for Vape Juice Users
- Emergency Response to Vape Juice Ingestion
- Conclusion
The Dangers of Drinking Vape Juice

Drinking vape juice can cause severe health conditions, especially if it contains highly concentrated nicotine.
Nicotine poisoning can occur if you drink a bottle of vape liquid, and the severity of nicotine toxicity and toxic effects depends on the amount of nicotine in the vape liquid bottle.
The current understanding is that it takes lethal dose of between 500mg and 1000mg of nicotine to kill an adult.
Risks of Nicotine Overdose
Nicotine overdose symptoms include nausea:
- Dizziness.
- Headache
- Stomachache
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
If you’ve accidentally ingested your vape juice, you’re at risk for these symptoms of nicotine poisoning.
Seek medical care and attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Non-Nicotine E-Liquid Concerns
Nicotine-free e-liquids can still pose health concerns due to potential allergens and irritants in flavorings.
Base liquids, such as propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, can cause stomach discomfort, nausea or allergic reactions if accidentally ingested whole.
Keep e-liquids out of reach of children and pets.
Reading Vape Juice Labels Safely
- Consult the label on your vape juice to ensure you’re aware of its contents and potential risks.
- Ingredients, health risks, and nicotine content should be clearly stated.
- Store products safely and educate your household about the potential dangers.
For high-quality and clearly labeled e juice and vape products, check out D8 Super Store for a selection of safe and regulated e-liquids.”
Child Safety and Vape Products
- Keep vape products away from children and pets to prevent accidental exposure.
- Even small amounts of nicotine can be harmful, and with children’s natural curiosity, the risk of ingestion or skin contact is too high to ignore.
- Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect a child has come into contact with vape juice.
Preventing Accidental Ingestion of Vape Juice
- Store e-liquids securely and handle with care to prevent accidental exposure.
- If you suspect a child has ingested any amount of liquid nicotine, seek medical attention immediately.
- Check the rubber top of your coil head regularly to ensure it is securely in place.
What to Do If Someone Drinks Vape Juice
- If someone drinks vape juice, act quickly. Rinse mouth and avoid inducing vomiting.
- Monitor for symptoms of nicotine poisoning and seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms occur or if a large amount is ingested.
- Seek medical attention right away and don’t wait to see if symptoms develop or worsen.
Safety Precautions for Vape Juice Users

- Keep vaping products away from children and pets, and be cautious while refilling e-cigarettes to prevent spillage or accidental ingestion.
- Wash the affected area with soap and water immediately, and seek medical advice if irritation persists.
- Always check the label before using any e-liquid to see any allergens present, nicotine strength, and other important information.
Emergency Response to Vape Juice Ingestion
- If you experience any negative side effects, speak to your GP immediately.
- Remember to always handle e-liquid with care and avoid skin contact.
- The NHS Royal College of Nursing advises that patients who have ingested 0.2mg/kg or more nicotine should be referred for medical assessment.
Conclusion

Drinking vape juice is highly dangerous, particularly if it contains nicotine. Ingesting even a small amount swallowing vape juice can lead to poisoning, with symptoms ranging from nausea and dizziness to seizures and breathing difficulties. Nicotine-free e-liquids can still cause stomach irritation and allergic reactions. Always store vape products securely, read labels carefully, and educate those around you on the risks of vape device. If ingestion of vape device occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Prioritizing safety can prevent severe health complications.
- What happens if I accidentally swallow a small amount of vape juice?
If the vape juice contains nicotine, you may experience mild nausea or dizziness. If symptoms worsen, seek medical help immediately. - Can drinking vape juice be fatal?
Yes, consuming large amounts of nicotine-containing vape juice can be fatal. Even small doses can be harmful, especially for children and pets. - How much nicotine is considered toxic?
Toxicity levels vary, but consuming 0.2mg/kg of body weight is considered harmful. A dose of 500-1000mg of nicotine can be fatal for adults. - Can non-nicotine vape juice be harmful if ingested?
Yes, even without nicotine, e-liquid contains chemicals like propylene glycol and flavorings that can cause stomach upset and allergic reactions. - What should I do if a child ingests vape juice?
Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Even small amounts of nicotine can be extremely dangerous for children. - How should I store vape juice safely?
Keep vape juice in a locked cabinet or high shelf, away from children and pets. Ensure bottles have childproof caps and are clearly labeled. - What are the first signs of nicotine poisoning?
Initial symptoms include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, increased heart rate, and excessive salivation. Severe poisoning can lead to seizures and respiratory failure.
By following safety precautions and educating yourself on the dangers of ingesting vape juice, you can prevent serious health risks and protect yourself and others. - Can vape juice cause long-term health problems if ingested?
Yes, repeated exposure to nicotine or other harmful chemicals in vape juice can lead to long-term health issues, including cardiovascular and neurological problems. - Is there an antidote for nicotine poisoning?
While there is no direct antidote for nicotine poisoning, medical professionals can provide treatments such as activated charcoal, IV fluids, and medications to manage symptoms. - What should I do if my pet drinks vape juice?
Nicotine is extremely toxic to pets. If your pet ingests vape juice, contact a veterinarian immediately, as even a small amount can be life-threatening.
By following safety precautions and educating yourself on the dangers of ingesting vape juice, you can prevent serious health risks and protect yourself and others.