With no tobacco, combustion, or smoke involved, Velo nicotine pouches are a safer alternative to traditional nicotine products, eliminating most of the health risks associated with tobacco use. Still, since they contain nicotine, are they entirely risk-free, and can they cause unpleasant reactions?
We’ll discuss potential Velo nicotine pouches’ side effects, how they occur, and how to avoid them so you can enjoy your Velo nicopods safely.
Potential Velo Pouches’ Side Effects
Velo pouches rarely cause side effects, especially when used properly. Unpleasant reactions typically come from improper use, allergies or sensitivities to nicotine, or underlying health conditions.
While side effects are uncommon, those who experience them usually report the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Heartburn
- Hiccups
- Headache and dizziness
- Gum irritation
- Sore throat
Nausea and Vomiting From Velo
Nausea and vomiting are the most common side effects of Velo pouches.
Nausea usually occurs 15 minutes after using a Velo pouch and can last up to an hour, usually in those trying nicotine pouches for the first time. Using pouches that are too strong could also cause nausea and, potentially, vomiting.
If you start feeling nauseous, remove the pouch from your mouth and drink some water to soothe your stomach. Wait until the symptoms subside before using another, preferably milder Velo pouch. If the problems persist, consult your doctor.
Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure From Velo
Nicotine is a potent stimulant that temporarily increases your heart rate and blood pressure. If you’re healthy, this heart rate and blood pressure increase is barely noticeable and will rarely affect you in any way.
This isn’t the case if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or stroke. In that case, consult your doctor before using Velo nicopods because nicotine can exacerbate these conditions and cause complications.
Heartburn From Velo
Heartburn, or acid reflux, is a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid rising into the esophagus. It occurs due to nicotine’s stimulant properties relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing digestive acid to enter the throat.
If you experience heartburn when using Velo, here’s how you can resolve it:
- Drink a glass of water to help neutralize the acid and soothe your throat
- Avoid lying down after using Velo to prevent acid from entering the esophagus
- Take some antacids
- Switch to a lower nicotine strength
Hiccups From Velo
Hiccups from Velo pouches don’t happen often, and if they do, they’re usually harmless and resolve on their own. They occur because nicotine stimulates the phrenic nerve, causing the diaphragm to contract involuntarily.
Sipping cold water, holding your breath for a few seconds, or breathing into a paper bag can help stop hiccups.
Headache and Dizziness From Velo
Some users may experience headaches after consuming Velo nicopods due to nicotine’s vasoconstrictive properties. Nicotine narrows the blood vessels, reducing blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain, potentially leading to a headache. You may also feel light-headed or dizzy due to reduced blood flow to the brain. Thankfully, these symptoms are usually mild and short-lived, but if they persist, discontinue Velo use and consult your doctor.
Gum Irritation From Velo
You should place Velo nicotine pouches between your upper lip and gum, a bit behind your cuspid (canine) tooth. Improper pouch placement or excessive use of Velo nicopods can sometimes cause gum irritation, redness, soreness, or swelling.
In severe cases, improper pouch placement may lead to gum recession or infection. To prevent irritation and other gum problems, place each new pouch on the other side of your mouth to let your gums rest. You should also avoid leaving a Velo pouch in your mouth for more than an hour.
Sore Throat From Velo
Incessant or otherwise improper use of the Velo nicotine pouches can lead to a sore throat. The problem usually starts as a tingling or burning sensation in the throat and progresses to a dry, scratchy feeling.
If you experience a sore throat, one of the first things you should do is gargle with salt water to soothe it. You can also take a break from using Velo pouches or opt for a less potent nicopod.
What if You Consume Too Many Velo Pouches?
Source: Usman Yousaf
Velo recommends limiting yourself to 8–12 nicopods per day, but using more than that isn’t automatically bad. Your nicotine tolerance and personal preference influence your daily intake, but what you need to pay the most attention to is product potency. Even a single nicopod could be “one too many.”
For example, if you’re new to nicopods and you pop a 14 mg Velo pouch—you’ll likely feel nauseous and sick. In case you’re a seasoned user and go through an entire can of 14 mg pouches in a single day—there’s a great chance nothing will happen.
The dose matters the most. If you use too many nicopods at once or you overdo it with a potent product, there is a chance you will experience side effects.
Sometimes, overindulging in nicopods could lead to nicotine poisoning or even a nicotine overdose, although the chances are slim. That said, both of these could still happen, and it would be wise to know the symptoms so you can call the doctor if you experience some of these:
- Increased blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rate
- Sweating
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Hypersalivation
- Confusion
Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these 30–60 minutes after using Velo nicopods.
Are Velo Nicotine Pouches Bad for You Long-Term?
Being a relatively new product, there is limited research on the long-term health effects of using Velo pouches. Even so, Velo pouches are 100% tobacco-free, don’t involve combustion for intake, and contain significantly fewer toxic chemicals compared to dip pouches, classic snus, and cigarettes.
Nicotine, the primary component in Velo pouches, is not carcinogenic on its own. More often than not, nicotine has nothing to do with any illnesses linked to tobacco use. It’s the tar, carbon monoxide, and other 7,000 harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke that cause most adverse health issues.
If we extrapolate from the available data, Velo nicopods don’t appear to be harmful in the long run. However, nicotine is highly addictive and can lead to very uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
What’s In a Velo Pouch That Makes It Safe?
The reason why nicopods appear to be safer than most tobacco products is because of their simple, food-grade ingredient profile. Check out the details in the table below.
Ingredient | Description |
Pharmaceutical-grade nicotine | Derived from high-quality tobacco leaves |
Flavorings | Add distinctive aromas to the pouches, such as mint, citrus, and wintergreen |
Sweeteners | Sugar substitutes, such as Acesulfame K and Xylitol, provide a sweet taste to the nicopods |
Ammonium chloride and sodium chloride | Enhance the flavor and regulate pH levels |
Sodium bicarbonate | Regulates pH levels for optimal nicotine absorption |
Microcrystalline cellulose | Adds bulk to the pouches |
Sodium Alginate | Provides texture and consistency to the pouch |
Water | Moistens the pouches and guarantees rapid nicotine and flavor release |
How To Avoid Side Effects While Using Velo Nicotine Pouches
Source: Thought Catalog
While Velo pouches don’t pose significant health risks, it’s essential to use them correctly to avoid potential side effects and have a pleasant experience. Here’s how to use Velo pouches safely:
- Place the pouch between your upper lip and gum
- Let it sit for up to 30 minutes
- Remove the used pouch and dispose of it responsibly
Besides proper usage, the following tips will guarantee a delightful experience with Velo pouches:
- Avoid strongest pouches if you’re new to nicotine or have a low tolerance. Start with milder nicopods and gradually build your way up
- Don’t consume Velo in succession or stack multiple pouches at one go. Use one pouch at a time and take 1–2 hour breaks between pouches. Discontinue use if you experience unwanted reactions
- Chewing, sucking, or swallowing the pouch doesn’t result in a better buzz but increases the risk of side effects
- Avoid placing Velo pouches in the same spot over and over again to prevent gum irritation and mouth sores. Switch the sides with every new pouch
- Drink plenty of water before and after using Velo pouches to avoid dehydration. This also helps soothe potential side effects such as heartburn and dry mouth
- If you use Velo nicopods in addition to other nicotine products such as longcut, cigarettes, or vapes, keep track of your total nicotine consumption to avoid overconsumption
What Are the Benefits of Velo Pouches?
More people are turning to Velo pouches as an alternative to traditional tobacco products. Besides being tobacco-free, Velo pouches are also:
- Convenient and discreet: No more ashtrays, lighters, or chargers needed. Pop in a Velo pouch whenever and wherever your cravings hit. The slim, discreet pouches won’t show in your mouth or emit any odor
- Healthier than smoking: With no combustion or smoke involved, Velo pouches eliminate 69 known carcinogens and hundreds of other harmful toxins found in cigarettes. They reduce the risk of cancer, respiratory problems, and cardiovascular disease
- Delicious: Say goodbye to the harsh, bitter taste of tobacco. Velo pouches can be minty and refreshing or taste like your favorite fruit
- Affordable: A can of Velo costs less than a pack of cigarettes and will last you longer if you adhere to the usage guidelines
- Mess-free: Nicotine pouches don’t smell, stain your teeth, or cause bad breath
Does Velo Help Quit Smoking?
Source: Mufid Majnun
Velo is not a smoking cessation aid and is not marketed as such or intended for this purpose. If you’re looking to quit smoking, doctor-approved nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) methods, like nicotine lozenges, are more effective options. They deliver nicotine slowly and steadily, helping you gradually wean off cigarettes.
Still, Velo nicopods are an excellent option for smokers looking to switch to a less harmful alternative or reduce their tobacco use—especially since Velo lozenges aren’t available anymore.
Where Can You Buy Velo Nicotine Pouches?
Source: SnusBoss
SnusBoss is the best place to buy Velo nicopods online. Founded and operated by industry experts, SnusBoss sources, tests, and distributes top-of-the-line nicotine pouches from the EU, including Velo.
As a European brand, Velo wasn’t affected by the FDA’s 2016 ruling classifying nicopods as smokeless tobacco products. This gave manufacturers a seven-year advantage to experiment with ingredients and perfect their formula, resulting in tastier, stronger, and safer nicopods.
SnusBoss curates a selection of fresh, authentic Velo pouches to satisfy every user’s preferences. The online shop also offers competitive prices, fast shipping, and excellent customer service, and if that sounds like a good deal, all you need to do is:
- Visit the online store
- Select your favorite Velo pouches
- Provide your payment details and shipping info
SnusBoss also distributes nicopods from other popular and upcoming EU brands, so you can explore, discover, and compare different flavors and strengths to find your ultimate favorite. Check out the selection in the table below.
SnusBoss offers express delivery, which guarantees your package will be delivered to your doorstep in 2–3 business days.
Featured image source: Kyle Glenn