Cyanide Poisoning

Cyanide Poisoning

Overview

  • Occurs naturally in various plants, herbs, and seeds (e.g., apricot, cassava, apple seeds - ACA).

  • Causes toxicity through chemical asphyxiation.

Mechanism of Action

  • Irreversible binding to cytochrome oxidase.

  • Blocks aerobic utilization of oxygen.

Toxic Dose (T.D.)

  • Inhaled: 150 to 200 ppm

  • Ingested: 200 mg of Sodium or Potassium salt.

Signs and Symptoms (S/S) (HNDSCAC)

  • Headache

  • Nausea

  • Dyspnea

  • Seizures

  • Coma

  • Agonal respirations

  • Cardiovascular collapse

Antidote Treatment (SASH)

  1. Sodium thiosulfate: 12.5 g IV

  2. Amyl nitrite: Inhalation 0.2 ml every 3 to 5 minutes

  3. Sodium nitrite: 2.5 to 5 ml/minute IV

  4. Alternative: Hydroxocobalamin (Vitamin B12 - Cyanokit)