The Acute Toxicity of Nitrite Inhalants

Alkyl nitrites produce a variety of effects when inhaled. Except in the context of anginal pain or as an antidote to cyanide poisoning, these effects cannot be construed as having therapeutic utility. A number of demonstrable risks accompany the inhalation of these materials, and this chapter will review the acute hazards associated with the nonmedical use of these chemicals. Aside from the spectrum of effects desired by the user, there are less desirable “side effects” as well as frank injuries associated with the use of these products, including skin and tracheobronchial irritation; bum injuries; acute toxicity mediated by hypokinetic anoxia, methemoglobinemia, and associated disorders of blood and blood-forming organs; and the induction of a substance abuse disorder.