When a Zyn pouch is ingested, the nicotine contained within is absorbed through the digestive system rather than the oral mucosa, as intended. This altered absorption pathway can lead to a slower, potentially less predictable, uptake of nicotine into the bloodstream. The gastrointestinal tract’s environment influences the rate and extent of this absorption, potentially mitigating the rapid nicotine rush experienced when the pouch is used sublingually.
Understanding the physiological consequences of this action is significant due to the potential for variations in nicotine’s effects. While the intended use provides a controlled release, swallowing the pouch introduces variables such as stomach contents and individual digestive processes. This can lead to unexpected levels of nicotine exposure and related side effects. Furthermore, the pouch materials themselves, while generally considered food-grade, are not designed for digestion and could potentially cause minor gastrointestinal distress.