Amyl nitrite

117.15

117.15

207-332-7

H2HUX79FYK

1113

DTXSID3024522

Yellowish liquid|Clear, yellowish liquid

V - Various

29209085

38.7

2.64

Amyl nitrite appears as a clear colorless to yellowish liquid with a fragrant, fruity odor and pungent aromatic taste. Flash point below 73°F. Boiling point 205-210°F (96-99°C). Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Vapors are heavier than air. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion. Used in medicine and to make other chemicals.

0.8758 at 68° F (USCG, 1999)

104.5 °C

-40°C

1.424

3.97e+00 g/L

Refrigerator

65 hPa (20 °C)

4 (NTP, 1992) (Relative to Air)

Subcutaneous-mouse LDL0: 30000 mg/kg

Open flame, high temperature, flammable in case of oxidant; burning produces toxic nitrogen oxide fumes

Peculiar ethereal, fruity odor

Pungent, aromatic taste

Henry's Law constant = 2.0X10-4 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C (est)

Decomposes on exposure to air, light or water|Specific gravity: 0.853 at 20 °C/4 °C|Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 4.25X10-12 cu cm/molec-sec at 25 °C

Highly flammable. Decomposes on exposure to air, light, or water. Many of the decomposition products, but not all, will be colorless flammable toxic gases. Insoluble in water. Reaction with moisture in air or with water produces nitric acid.

Nitro, Nitroso, Nitrate, and Nitrite Compounds, Organic

Highly Flammable

AMYL NITRITE is an oxidizing agent. May begin a vigorous reaction that culminates in a detonation if mixed with reducing agents, including hydrides, sulfides and nitrides.

410 °F (USCG, 1999)|408 °F

II

3.1

1113

3

11-20/22

16-24-45-46

RA1140000

F,Xn

Storehouse ventilated at low temperature and dry; stored separately from oxidant and reducing agent

It is an oxidant; its steam explodes in heat

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P312, P303+P361+P353, P304+P312, P304+P340, P312, P330, P370+P378, P403+P235, P501

H225

SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.|Incineration with scrubber to remove nitrogen oxides from the combustion gases. /Amyl nitrites/

Forms explosive mixture with air. Slowly decomposes in light, heat, and on contact with water. A strong oxidizer. Contact with reducing agents and easily oxidizable materials may cause fire and explosions. Reported to be an explosion hazard when exposed to air and light. Keep away from alcohols, antipyrine, alkaline materials; alkaline carbonates; potassium iodide, bromides, and ferrous salts. Attacks metals in the presence of moisture. /Amyl nitrites/|It will react with oxidizing or reducing materials.

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Toxic oxides of nitrogen are formed. Behavior in Fire: Containers may explode. (USCG, 1999)

|Danger|H225: Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]|P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P312, P303+P361+P353, P304+P312, P304+P340, P312, P330, P370+P378, P403+P235, and P501

Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]: As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). FIRE: If tank, rail car or tank truck is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2016)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]: ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames in immediate area). All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect absorbed material. LARGE SPILL: Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal. Water spray may reduce vapor, but may not prevent ignition in closed spaces. (ERG, 2016)

Protective goggles or face shield; self-contained breathing apparatus; protective gloves and clothing. (USCG, 1999)|Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact. .... All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work. ... Wear splash-proof chemical goggles and face shield unless full face-piece respiratory protection is worn. /Amyl nitrites/

This chemical is a flammable liquid. /Amyl nitrites/|Flammable when exposed to heat or flame or by spontaneous chemical reaction.

Reported to be an explosion hazard when exposed to air and light. /Amyl nitrites/|Vapor explode when heated.

Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or alcohol foam extinguishers. ... If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position. ... The only respirators recommended for firefighting are self-contained breathing apparatuses that have full face-pieces and are operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode. /Amyl nitrites/|To fight fire, use alcohol foam.|If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may spread fire. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Vapors may travel long distances to ignition sources and flashback. Vapors in confined areas may explode when exposed to fire. Storage containers and parts of containers may rocket great distances, in many directions. /Amyl nitrites/

Evacuate persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Ventilate area of spill or leak. Use water spray to reduce vapors. Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a similar material and deposit in sealed containers. Keep amyl nitrite out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the potential for an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the buildup of explosive concentrations. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. /Amyl nitrites/|Environmental considerations - land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, cement powder, or commercial sorbents.|Environmental considerations - water spill: Use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Remove trapped material with suction hoses.|Environmental considerations - air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors.

Employees should wash immediately with soap when skin is wet or contaminated. Provide emergency showers and eyewash. /Amyl nitrites/|If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Use water spray to knock-down vapors.|Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water.

/GUIDE 129 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.|/GUIDE 129 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Health: May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.|/GUIDE 129 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.|/GUIDE 129 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.|For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for n-Amyl nitrite (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./|The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials. Amyl nitrite is included on the dangerous goods list.|The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article. Amyl nitrite is included on the dangerous goods list.

practically nontoxic

Overdose symptoms include nausea, emesis (vomiting), hypotension, hypoventilation, dyspnea (shortness of breath), and syncope (fainting)|IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Amyl nitrite is a clear, yellowish liquid. Amyl nitrite is a smooth muscle relaxant that has been used clinically to facilitate uterine relaxation in difficult deliveries. The use of amyl nitrite has been associated with sexual risk behavior and HIV infection among gay and bisexual men. HUMAN STUDIES: Inhalation of amyl nitrite by human volunteers in a gas mask and from ampoules crushed close to the nose did not induce hemoglobin oxidation, but it was associated with headache, tiredness, dizziness, and a fall in blood pressure. Two cases of amyl nitrite poisoning were presented. In both cases, severe methemoglobinemia developed after ingestion of approximately 10 mL of amyl nitrite. When admitted to hospital, both patients were deeply cyanosed, and arterial blood samples were noticed to be chocolate brown. There is also a case of a 37-year-old black man with HIV who developed chemical leukoderma in the nasal and perioral areas within 4 weeks of spilling liquid amyl nitrite, which he had been inhaling as a recreational drug, on his lower face. A case of blinding bilateral acute optic nerve disease was reported in a 15-year-old male apparently induced by inhalation of amyl nitrite. A patient with HIV infection developed a profound hemolytic anemia after repeated inhalation of large quantities of amyl nitrite. Amyl nitrite 'poppers' are recreational drugs, which are a potent source of nitric oxide. The use of 'poppers' can cause psychoactive stimulation, reduced blood pressure, tachycardia and involuntary muscle relaxation. In addition, research has found that popper use suppresses natural killer (NK) cell function, which increases vulnerability to infectious agents, produces sustained alterations in the immune system, and may be a Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) cofactor. The combined data implicate that the use of poppers may well pose as a significant risk factor for seroconversion. ANIMAL STUDIES: Amyl nitrite i.v. produced HbFe3+ much more rapidly than NaNO2 in dogs, cats, rabbits, and rats. In dogs, i.m. injection of amyl nitrite was followed by a very slow linear increase in the HbFe3+ content. Inhalation of amyl nitrite did not lead to HbFe3+ formation in dogs unless it was rebreathed in a closed (bag) or not completely open (gas mask) system. HbFe3+ was produced by oral amyl nitrite in dogs, the effect being enhanced by addition of DMSO. Intratracheal inhalation of amyl nitrite in the pentobarbitone/urethane anesthetized rabbit caused reductions in tidal volume and both inspiratory and expiratory times, without a preceding apnea, that were independent of the associated hypotension and of reflex influences from the carotid sinus region but dependent on supra-abdominal vagal integrity. In artificially ventilated, paralyzed rabbits amyl nitrite caused a pronounced sensitization of pulmonary stretch receptors during the inflation phase, typically with a reduction in the level of activity during the deflation phase. When tested for genotoxicity, amyl nitrite, was negative in the mouse lymphoma assay, but it was positive in the Salmonella typhimurium mutagenicity assay.

n-Amyl nitrite's production and use as a chemical intermediate for diazonium compounds(1) and administration as a prescribed, homeopathic medication(2,3) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use in perfumes(1) and as a inhalant(2,3) as well as a drug of abuse(2,4) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 440(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that n-amyl nitrite is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of n-amyl nitrite from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.0X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(2). n-Amyl nitrite is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 3.97 mm Hg at 25 °C(3). Biodegradation data in soil were not available(SRC, 2018).|AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 440(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that n-amyl nitrite is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.0X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(2). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 8 hrs and 6 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(4), an estimated BCF of 35(SRC), from an estimated log Kow of 2.85(2) and a regression-derived equation(2), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate(SRC). Biodegradation data in water were not available(SRC, 2018).|ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), n-amyl nitrite, which has a vapor pressure of 3.97 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase n-amyl nitrite is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 4 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 4.25X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). n-Amyl nitrite absorbs UV light at wavelength 356 nm(4) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of n-amyl nitrite with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 4.25X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 4 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). n-Amyl nitrite is expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the presence of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3). n-Amyl nitrite absorbs UV light at wavelength 356 nm(3) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 35 was calculated in fish for n-amyl nitrite(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 2.85(1) and a regression-derived equation(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of n-amyl nitrite can be estimated to be 440(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that amyl nitrite is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for n-amyl nitrite is estimated as 2.0X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) developed using a fragment constant estimation method(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that n-amyl nitrite is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 8 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 6 days(SRC). n-Amyl nitrite's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). n-Amyl nitrite is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 3.97 mm Hg(3).

Occupational exposure to n-amyl nitrite may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where n-amyl nitrite is produced or used. Use data indicate that the general population may be exposed to n-amyl nitrite via inhalation of perfumes and administration or abuse of medical inhalants and homeopathic remedies containing n-amyl nitrite. (SRC)

For the rapid relief of angina pectoris.

/EXPL THER/ Presented is a case of idiopathic priapism that was successfully treated with inhalation of amyl nitrite. Routine treatment measures had failed. The same patient presented on several other occasions in a similar fashion. Each time amyl nitrite was successful. An investigation for diseases known to be associated with priapism proved negative. Due to the frequency of recurrences, definitive surgical management was offered. The patient refused and has been lost to follow up.|/EXPL THER/ Acute catastrophic pulmonary vasoconstriction frequently leads to cardiovascular collapse. Rapid and selective pulmonary vasodilation is desired in order to restore hemodynamic stability. This pilot study examined the effectiveness of inhaled amyl nitrite as a selective pulmonary vasodilator. Nine adult swine were anesthetized. Acute pulmonary hypertension with hemodynamic collapse was induced with a bolus administration of a thromboxane analogue, U46619. Six animals then received a capsule of amyl nitrite. The administration of inhaled amyl nitrite decreased mean pulmonary artery pressure from 42 +/- 3 to 22 +/ 3 mm Hg at five minutes (p < 0.05), with a concomitant increase in cardiac output and mean arterial pressure. Pulmonary vascular resistance decreased from 4889 +/- 1338 to 380 +/- 195 dyne. sec. cm(-5) (by 92% from the maximal pulmonary hypertension change), with significant improvement in systemic hemodynamics. During acute thromboxane-mediated pulmonary hypertension with cardiovascular collapse, prompt administration of inhaled amyl nitrite was effective in restoring pulmonary and systemic hemodynamics within five minutes.|/EXPL THER/ Amyl nitrite is a smooth muscle relaxant that has been used clinically to facilitate uterine relaxation in difficult deliveries. In this retrospective study, we evaluate the safety of amyl nitrite use during preterm cesarean deliveries, and we assess possible advantageous effects on surgical incision choice. Women who received amyl nitrite cesarean section were compared to a control group matched for gestational age, fetal presentation, and mode of delivery who did not receive amyl nitrite. There were no statistical differences between the groups in the independent variables (maternal age, parity, medical or obstetric history, type of anesthesia, anesthesia or obstetric attending physician, antepartum hematocrit, or neonatal weight). Outcome (dependent) variables (estimated blood loss, Apgar scores, postpartum hematocrit, cord gases, or postpartum complications) were assessed, and there were no significant differences between the groups. Low transverse cesarean section was performed more frequently in the amyl nitrite group (58 of 64) than in the comparison group (48 of 64) (p less than 0.03). Considering the 128 women with and without amyl nitrite together, the decrease in hematocrit observed postpartum was greater after classic section (7%) than after low transverse section (4%) (p less than 0.002). We conclude that the use of amyl nitrite during preterm cesarean section poses no threat to mother or fetus and may facilitate delivery by allowing the performance of a low transverse rather than a classic cesarean section without maternal or neonatal complications.

Amyl nitrite, in common with other alkyl nitrites, is a potent vasodilator. It expands blood vessels, resulting in lowering of the blood pressure. Alkyl nitrite functions as a source of nitric oxide, which signals for relaxation of the involuntary muscles. Adverse effects are related to this pharmacological activity and include hypotension, headache, flushing of the face, tachycardia, dizziness, and relaxation of involuntary muscles, especially the blood vessel walls and the anal sphincter.

Drugs used to cause dilation of the blood vessels. (See all compounds classified as Vasodilator Agents.)

Amyl nitrite vapors are absorbed rapidly through the pulmonary alveoli, manifesting therapeutic effects within one minute after inhalation.

Hepatic. The drug is metabolized rapidly, probably by hydrolytic denitration; approximately one-third of the inhaled amyl nitrite is excreted in the urine.

Amyl nitrite's antianginal action is thought to be the result of a reduction in systemic and pulmonary arterial pressure (afterload) and decreased cardiac output because of peripheral vasodilation, rather than coronary artery dilation. Amyl nitrite is a source of nitric oxide, which accounts for the mechanism described above. As an antidote (to cyanide poisoning), amyl nitrite promotes formation of methemoglobin, which combines with cyanide to form nontoxic cyanmethemoglobin.

Inhalation or ingestion causes flushing of the face, pulsatile headache, disturbing tachycardia, cyanosis (methemoglobinemia), weakness, confusion, restlessness, faintness, and collapse. Contact with eyes or skin causes irritation. (USCG, 1999)

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment. INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing. INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Volatile chemicals have a high risk of being aspirated into the victim's lungs during vomiting which increases the medical problems. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/|Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat as necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/|Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious or is in severe respiratory distress. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary. Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. If unresponsive to these measures, vasopressors may be helpful. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Administer 1% solution methylene blue if patient is symptomatic with severe hypoxia, cyanosis, and cardiac compromise not responding to oxygen. ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/|If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove any contact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least 15 min, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts the skin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediately with soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure, begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR if heart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medical facility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. /Amyl nitrites/

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Regional cerebral blood flow (CBF), mood states and somatic symptoms were measured before and after inhalation of amyl nitrite in 10 physically healthy volunteers with a prior history of using volatile nitrites for recreational purposes. CBF was measured with the same technique, under identical laboratory conditions, in an equal number of normal volunteers. During CBF measurements, blood pressure, pulse rate, respiratory rate and end-tidal levels of carbon dioxide were monitored. The amyl nitrite group and the control group were compared on CBF, rating scale scores and physiological indices via analysis of variance. Amyl nitrite inhalation was associated with significant global increases in CBF, while the control group did not show any change. Pulse rate increase was the only physiological change associated with administration of the drug. Subjects who received the drug reported significant decrease in anger, fatigue and depression and increased palpitation, breathing difficulty, dizziness and headache. Changes in the rating scale scores, physiological indices, and somatic symptoms after amyl nitrite did not correlate with regional CBF change.|/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ ... The use of 'poppers' can cause psychoactive stimulation, reduced blood pressure, tachycardia and involuntary muscle relaxation. ...|/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Moderately toxic by inhalation and ingestion. Causes flushing of skin, rapid pulse, headache, and fall in blood pressure.|/CASE REPORTS/ Two cases of amyl nitrite poisoning are presented. In both cases, severe methemoglobinemia developed after ingestion of approximately 10 mL of amyl nitrite. When admitted to hospital, both patients were deeply cyanosed, and arterial blood samples were noticed to be chocolate brown. They were intravenously treated with methylene blue. Within one hour the condition of both patients had improved dramatically, and blood gas-samples had normalized. In cases of cyanosis with no obvious genesis, poisoning with amyl nitrite should be considered.|For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for n-Amyl nitrite (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Amyl Nitrite

Grade: NF, (75% minimum), technical.

Nitrous acid, pentyl ester: ACTIVE|Mixture of isomers containing not less than 97.0% and not more than 100.0% of C5H11NO2. Consists chiefly of isoamyl nitrite ... but other isomers are also present.