Effects of snuff on regional blood flow to the cheek and tongue of anesthetized dogs.

Regional blood flow to the cheek and tongue of anesthetized dogs was measured before and after application of six different doses of snuff (3.12 to 100 mg/kg body weight) to the right cheek. Dose-independent vasodilation was observed at the site of application, whereas dose-dependent vasoconstriction was observed contralaterally. Aortic, central venous, and ventricular pressures were significantly increased (p < 0.05) at the higher doses. Plasma nicotine concentrations increased stepwise with dose.