36mg Nic Shots – What Is Nicotine Benzoate?

In the world of vaping, nicotine shots are a common topic of confusion, particularly when it comes to understanding nicotine concentrations. One common point of confusion is the difference between nicotine shots labeled as “36mg” and those labeled “20mg” or “18mg”. Let’s unravel this mystery and shed some light on what those numbers really mean.

The Basics: What is a Nicotine Shot?

A nicotine shot is a concentrated form of nicotine used to increase the nicotine content in shortfll e-liquids. Typically, nicotine shots come in two types: freebase nicotine and nicotine salts. Freebase nicotine is the standard form, but nicotine salts have become increasingly popular due to their smoother throat hit and quicker absorption.

Freebase Nicotine vs Nicotine Salts

• Freebase Nicotine: This is the most common form of nicotine in e-liquids. It’s typically found in higher concentrations and can be harsh on the throat at higher strengths. A “18mg freebase nicotine shot” means that each millilitre of liquid contains 18 milligrams of nicotine.
• Nicotine Salts: Nicotine salts are a different beast. They are created by combining nicotine with acids (like benzoic acid), resulting in a smoother vaping experience. Nicotine salts are less harsh at high concentrations compared to freebase nicotine.

Freebase Nicotine vs Benzoate Acid & Salicylic Acid

• Freebase Nicotine: This is the purest form of nicotine commonly found in e-liquids. It’s very potent and can be harsh on the throat, especially at higher strengths like 18mg/mL. It’s known for delivering a strong throat hit.
• Nicotine Benzoate: A type of nicotine salt created by combining nicotine with benzoic acid. It’s smoother and less irritating than freebase nicotine, allowing for higher nicotine levels without the harshness. Nicotine benzoate is about 56% nicotine by weight.
• Nicotine Salicylate: Another nicotine salt, formed by combining nicotine with salicylic acid. It offers a smooth vaping experience and is less common than nicotine benzoate but still provides a comfortable throat hit.

The chart below presents findings from a 2020 study that compared the effects of various nicotine salts against freebase nicotine and Pall Mall cigarettes on blood nicotine levels.

The study revealed that nicotine salts closely matched or even exceeded the performance of Pall Mall cigarettes in raising blood nicotine levels, whereas freebase nicotine from standard e-liquids was notably less effective.

This article from ACS Publications actually discusses how different forms of nicotine, including nicotine and its breakdown products, can impact health. It focuses on understanding the differences in how these various forms of nicotine might affect the body. It’s a bit of a read but very insightful.

We also reached out to the Lab at EcigWizard as they manufacture the popular 36mg Shorty Nic Shots. (Note: they have been advised to change the packing of this product to state 20mg in order to remain compliant)

“The product contains 36mg nicotine benzoate [salt] in each millilitre of e-liquid.
Each molecule of nicotine benzoate salt consists of  approximately 56% nicotine and 44% benzoate.  This implies that for every 36mg of nicotine-benzoate, you have 20mg nicotine.”

Key Differences:

• Formulation: Pure nicotine is simply nicotine in its unaltered form, while nicotine benzoate is a combination of nicotine and benzoic acid.
• Harshness: Pure nicotine tends to be more harsh on the throat, especially at higher concentrations, whereas nicotine benzoate is designed to be smoother and more pleasant to vape.
• Nicotine Delivery: Nicotine benzoate provides nicotine in a form that’s absorbed more effectively and comfortably, which can be beneficial for users seeking higher nicotine levels.

The 36mg Nicotine Benzoate Confusion

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. When you see a nicotine shot labeled as “36mg” this figure refers to the total concentration of nicotine benzoate (a compound of nicotine and benzoic acid) in each millilitre of e-liquid. However, nicotine benzoate is not pure nicotine, it’s a blend of nicotine and benzoic acid.

Breaking It Down

• Nicotine Benzoate Composition: Nicotine benzoate is approximately 56% nicotine by weight. This means that out of the 36mg of nicotine benzoate in a milliliter of e-liquid, around 20mg is actually nicotine. The rest is benzoic acid.
• Nicotine Content: So, while the product might say “36mg,” this refers to the nicotine benzoate concentration, not the pure nicotine. The actual nicotine concentration is closer to 20mg/mL.

Why It Matters

Understanding this distinction is crucial for several reasons:

• Dosage Accuracy: If you’re accustomed to freebase nicotine and see a “36mg” nicotine shot, you might expect it to deliver the same level of nicotine as a 36mg freebase shot. In reality, the nicotine content is lower in nicotine salt shots.
• Smoothness and Satisfaction: Nicotine salts are designed to be smoother, making them ideal for higher nicotine concentrations without the harshness. This allows for a more comfortable vaping experience, even with higher nicotine levels.
• Customisation: Knowing the difference helps in mixing your own e-liquids. If you’re looking to achieve a specific nicotine level, understanding how nicotine benzoate translates to actual nicotine content allows for more precise customisation.

Conclusion

So next time you come across a nicotine shot labeled as “36mg Shot” remember that this doesn’t equate to 36mg of pure nicotine. Instead, it’s a compound that includes both nicotine and benzoic acid, with the actual nicotine content being around 20mg/mL. By grasping these details, you can make more informed choices about your vaping needs and preferences.

E-Liquids UK believe that knowing the difference between nicotine shots and their formulations ensures you’re getting the nicotine level you want without any surprises. Happy Vaping!