The brief introduction of Isoamyl nitrite

Introduction

Isoamyl nitrite (amyl nitrite) is an intermediate for perfume preparation. It is an ingredient of “room odorizers.”

Amyl nitrite, despite its name, is also used as a nitrate. It is a yellowish liquid taken by inhalation of its vapour for angina pectoris. It has also been used to treat cyanide poisoning but is nowadays used exclusively as a substance of abuse. Although it is a prescription-only medicine in the UK, it is sold over the counter in glass ampoules for use as a “room deodorizer” or “incense.” It is known under numerous nicknames and brand names, including Snappers, poppers, Rush, Kix, Liquid Gold, Locker Room, Hardware, Ram, Thrust, and Rock Hard.

Uses

Amyl nitrite (C5H11ONO) is a known vasodilator and is, therefore, employed to treat heart disease and angina. In addition, amyl nitrite is used as an antidote for cyanide poisoning, where it acts as an oxidant to induce the formation of methemoglobin, which in turn can attenuate cyanide as cyanomethemoglobin. The alkyl group is generally unreactive, and the chemical and biological properties are primarily due to the nitrite (ONO) group.

Toxicity

Amyl nitrate can cause headache, flushing, hypotension, tachycardia, dizziness, and relaxation of the anal sphincter. Less commonly, it causes fainting, stupor, vertigo, incontinence, dyspnea, glaucoma, and methemoglobinemia.

Stability

Amyl nitrite is an unstable compound. It is air and light-sensitive and flammable. Amyl nitrite forms explosive mixtures with air or oxygen, incompatible with oxidizing and reducing agents.