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Poison Center Helpline 1-800-222-1222

Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Cigarettes

Cigarettes
Cigarettes are Highly Toxic .

If your child swallowed or sucked on a cigarette or cigarette butt, call IPC immediately at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

What to know: Cigarettes

  • Cigarettes contain nicotine and tobacco, and can include brands like Newport, Camel, Marlboro and more.
  • If your child ingested a small amount of nicotine, you can manage the situation at home with IPC’s help. Large amounts of nicotine, however, can be life-threatening.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate a cigarette. What should I do?

Cigarettes are highly toxic and are not meant to be used or consumed by children.

If you suspect your child ate or sucked on a cigarette, call IPC immediately at  1-800-222-1222 for advice specific to your situation.

Symptoms of Poisoning

Ingesting cigarettes can cause vomiting, sweating, drowsiness/tiredness, shaking, confusion, seizures and even death.

If your child develops any symptoms, or could have had contact with cigarettes, tobacco, or nicotine, call IPC now at 1-800-222-1222.

Eye Exposure

  • Cigarettes may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.

  • If your child got cigarette ashes in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.  

Have an urgent question or need more help?

Don't hesitate to call IPC at

1-800-222-1222

This call is free and confidential.

Poison Center HelplineCalls are free and confidential.

  1. In Case of Emergency

    Call 911 if someone is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing.

  2. Remain Calm

    Most poison emergencies can be resolved quickly over the phone.

  3. Call the Helpline

    Call 1-800-222-1222 if you are concerned that you or someone else has been exposed to a potentially harmful substance.