What is a nicotine buzz?

You probably heard of a nicotine buzz, or “nic buzz” for short, if you use snus, nicotine pouches, or any other nicotine-containing product. If you often wonder how it works or what it actually is, then you’re in the right place. This article dives into this topic, giving you the information needed on the well-known sensation.

What does a nicotine buzz feel like?

A nicotine buzz is that pleasant feeling when using a nicotine product. This sensation occurs when you’ve placed a nicotine pouch or snus under your upper lip, and the nicotine is absorbed. It’s summarised as

When your body and head feel light, you experience an adrenaline rush, giving you a slight “buzz”.

However, it is important to note that this sensation isn’t the same for every user. What’s above may not be what some users would describe as a nic buzz. It may be a different feeling altogether and be more intense.

How does a nicotine buzz work?

It occurs because of the action nicotine has on the user's body. But what does nicotine do when it’s absorbed into your bodily system? In your body, nicotine targets your central and peripheral nervous system, stimulating many processes by interacting with the brain.

• Research shows nicotine interacts with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
• Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are found in different neuronal cells, including dopaminergic neurons.
• Nicotine stimulates these receptors, leading to dopamine release and other “feel good” hormones, targeting the pleasure centers in your brain.

Moreover, research demonstrates it interacts with the body’s adrenal glands and causes the release of adrenaline, increasing focus and energy. Together, this is how the sensation is created.

How long does a nic buzz last?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it will differ between users because people will use different strengths of nicotine products, and each person will deal with nicotine differently. However, as a vague guideline, a nicotine buzz lasts 15 to 30 minutes.

What about the time taken to feel a nic buzz?

Again, this can differ depending on the user and the strength of the product. The brand can also affect the time it takes. The release times can change depending on the product's moisture. For example, LOOP nicotine pouches are known for their instantaneous release.

Usually, it takes around 2 minutes to experience it and longer for those more accustomed to the substance.

Does your tolerance affect the nicotine buzz?

The more tolerant you are to nicotine, the more is needed to achieve the same effects. Therefore, if you have been using nicotine products for a long period, you will have a high tolerance, meaning a strong nicotine pouch or snus is needed for a nicotine buzz.

Why does your tolerance increase?

If you consume nicotine repeatedly, your tolerance to it builds. Tolerance, in effect, occurs due to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and how they interact with nicotine itself. When exposed to nicotine for long periods of time, the receptors become desensitized to it, meaning more is needed to have the same effect on the receptor. Moreover, research shows another way prolonged nicotine exposure affects the receptors is that the brain produces more of them, which may explain the cravings experienced by users.

Is it the same with snus and nicotine pouches?

Snus and pouches both contain nicotine. Therefore, if the product has the right strength, you will experience a buzz. However, too much nicotine can lead to certain nicotine side effects. Therefore, if you want to steer clear of these adverse effects, you mustn’t use a product that is too potent for you.

Is a ZYN buzz the same as a VELO buzz?

A nic buzz occurs due to the nicotine released in your system. Therefore, no matter the brand of nicotine pouch, the same sensation, the so-called “nic buzz”, should be felt. Of course, the sensation may differ depending on the strength of the product which may cause a difference between the VELO and ZYN buzz. Pouch moisture and pH will affect this also.

Should the buzz be chased?

Snus isn’t as strong as nicotine pouches. When using a nicopod, you feel the the buzz within minutes as it hits you at once. Snus is different. When using it, the release isn’t as sudden and intense. For this reason, ex-smokers do not feel the same sensation with snus as they do with cigarettes, leading many to chase this effect. Chasing it increases consumption, leading to certain adverse effects. Instead,

Find a happy medium. Eventually, a nic buzz isn’t something you can achieve as you’ll hit your maximum tolerance.

If you have any other nicotine-related questions, the answers may be found in the “Understanding Nicotine” article in our blog. Check it out.