Vape juice, also known as e-liquid or e-juice, is designed for inhalation through a vaping device, not for ingestion. While small accidental exposure might not cause severe harm, drinking vape juice—especially nicotine-containing e-liquids—can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

1. What’s in Vape Juice?

Most vape juices contain the following ingredients:

  • Propylene Glycol (PG) – A synthetic compound used in food and pharmaceuticals.
  • Vegetable Glycerin (VG) – A plant-based thickening agent.
  • Flavorings – Food-grade additives for taste.
  • Nicotine (Optional) – The highly addictive stimulant found in tobacco.

Nicotine is the most concerning ingredient when e-liquid is consumed orally, as it can cause nicotine poisoning.

2. What Happens If You Drink Vape Juice?

The effects of drinking vape juice depend on the amount ingested and whether it contains nicotine.

🔹 Small Amounts (Few Drops or a Tiny Sip)

  • Nicotine-Free Vape Juice – Likely harmless, but could cause mild stomach upset.
  • Nicotine-Containing Vape Juice – May cause nausea, dizziness, and irritation.

💡 Action: Rinse your mouth and drink water. Watch for symptoms.

🔹 Moderate to Large Amounts (Especially with Nicotine)

  • Nausea and Vomiting – The body tries to expel the toxic substance.
  • Increased Heart Rate and Dizziness – Due to nicotine’s stimulant effect.
  • Headache and Sweating – Signs of mild nicotine poisoning.

💡 Action: If symptoms persist, seek medical help immediately.

🔹 High Doses of Nicotine (Severe Cases)

  • Tremors and Weakness – Due to nicotine overstimulating the nervous system.
  • Seizures or Loss of Consciousness – Occurs in extreme cases of nicotine poisoning.
  • Respiratory Failure or Death – Very rare, but possible in extremely high doses.

💡 Action: Call emergency services (911 or poison control) IMMEDIATELY.

3. Why Is Nicotine Dangerous When Ingested?

Nicotine is rapidly absorbed through the digestive system, leading to a fast and potentially toxic reaction.

  • The lethal dose of nicotine is estimated to be 30-60mg for adults and 10mg for children.
  • A single 30mL bottle of 12mg/mL e-liquid contains 360mg of nicotine, which is highly toxic if consumed.
  • Children and pets are at the highest risk due to their smaller body size.

🚨 Always store vape juice out of reach of children and pets!

4. What to Do If Someone Drinks Vape Juice?

🔹 If the Vape Juice is Nicotine-Free:

✅ Rinse mouth with water.
✅ Drink plenty of fluids.
✅ Monitor for nausea or upset stomach.

🔹 If the Vape Juice Contains Nicotine:

🚨 Call Poison Control or Seek Medical Attention Immediately!
📞 U.S. Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
📞 UK NHS Poison Line: 111

💡 Do NOT induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional.

5. Preventing Accidental Ingestion

✔ Keep vape juice bottles tightly sealed and stored safely.
✔ Use child-resistant bottles when possible.
✔ Label e-liquids clearly to avoid confusion.
✔ Do not eat, drink, or leave e-liquid near food.

Final Thoughts

Drinking vape juice, especially nicotine-containing e-liquids, can be dangerous and lead to nicotine poisoning. While small accidental exposure might cause only mild discomfort, larger doses can be life-threatening. If ingestion occurs, seek medical help immediately—especially if symptoms worsen.