Amyl nitrite
Amyl nitrite
Amyl nitrite
( AM-ill)
Pregnancy Category: X Amyl Nitrite Aspirols Amyl Nitrite Vaporole (Rx)

Classification: Coronary vasodilator, antidote for cyanide poisoning

See Also: See also Antianginal Drugs--Nitrates/Nitrites.

Action/Kinetics: Believed to act by reducing systemic and PA pressure (afterload) and by decreasing CO due to peripheral vasodilation. Vascular relaxation occurs due to stimulation of intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate. As an antidote to cyanide poisoning, amyl nitrite promotes formation of methemoglobin which combines with cyanide to form the nontoxic cyanmethemoglobin. Onset (inhalation): 30 sec. Duration: 3-5 min. About 33% is excreted through the kidneys.

Uses: Prophylaxis or relief of acute attacks of angina pectoris; acute cyanide poisoning. Investigational: Diagnostic aid to assess reserve cardiac function.

Contraindications: Lactation.

Special Concerns: Use in children has not been studied. Hypotensive effects are more likely to occur in geriatric clients.

How Supplied: Solution for Inhalation

Dosage
?Inhalation Angina pectoris.
Usual: 0.3 mL (1 container crushed). Usually, 1-6 inhalations from one container produces relief. Dosage may be repeated after 3-5 min.
Antidote for cyanide poisoning.
Administer for 30-60 sec q 5 min until client is conscious; is then repeated at longer intervals for up to 24 hr.