Amyl Nitrite

Absorption

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

Toxicity

Overdose symptoms include nausea, emesis (vomiting), hypotension, hypoventilation, dyspnea (shortness of breath), and syncope (fainting)

The Uses of Amyl Nitrite

Vasodilator.

Indications

For the rapid relief of angina pectoris.

Background

Amyl Nitrite is an antihypertensive medicine. Amyl nitrite is employed medically to treat heart diseases such as angina and to treat cyanide poisoning. Its use as a prescription medicine comes from its ability to lower blood pressure. As an inhalant, it also has psychoactive effect which has led to illegal drug use.

Pharmacokinetics

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.

Metabolism

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