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Last updated June 2026
Read time 2 minutes
The word ‘nic-sick’ is used to describe a range of symptoms that sometimes occur after vaping.
Nic-sick is a sudden and short-term illness that may be related to the toxic effects of nicotine.
People often report feeling nic-sick after vaping more than they usually do or after vaping for the first time in a while.
Soon after vaping, you may feel some of these symptoms:[1] ,2
Nausea (feeling sick)
Vomiting
Stomach pain
Headache
Diarrhoea
Watering mouth (extra saliva)
Dizziness
Confusion or feeling anxious
Change in heart rate or breathing
Seizures (but these are rare)
Most people who are nic-sick won’t have all these symptoms. They may have only one or two.1, 2
Vaping too much nicotine can cause nic-sick symptoms. If you suspect this has happened, urgently call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 at any time for free, 24‑hour advice.
If the person is very unwell, collapses, has a seizure, or is not breathing normally, urgently call Triple Zero (000).
Find more information on nicotine poisoning including when to call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.
The best way to avoid getting nic-sick is to quit vaping.
There is not enough information to provide useful guidelines on how much to vape to avoid nic-sick.
People who get nic-sick often say that it happens after vaping more than usual. Nic-sick can also happen if you haven’t vaped in a while.3
Vape brands have differing amounts of nicotine and the amount is rarely stated on the pack. When it is stated, it’s often inaccurate.4 Most people can’t tell how much nicotine they are getting in each puff or vape.
It can feel tough to quit vaping, but the benefits of quitting can happen quickly. Making a quit plan is a great place to start.
Quit is here for you, whatever your age or wherever you are on your quitting journey. Our experienced Quitline counsellors offer free support, including by phone, text or WhatsApp. Online resources and apps can help you start and stay quit.
If you are concerned about nicotine withdrawal, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about options.
Speak directly with a trained quit specialist. Our counsellors are available to provide immediate support, personalised quit plans, and answer all your questions.
Get in contact with Quit
Nic-sick symptoms include headache, nausea and vomiting.
