amyl nitrite

Amyl nitrite is a small molecule vasodilator of the alkyl nitrite class, historically used for the rapid relief of angina pectoris and as an antidote for cyanide poisoning. It acts by relaxing vascular smooth muscle, leading to decreased systemic vascular resistance and reduced cardiac preload and afterload. The primary mechanism involves the release of nitric oxide, which induces smooth muscle relaxation via cyclic GMP signaling pathways. As an antidote to cyanide poisoning, it promotes the formation of methemoglobin that binds cyanide ions to form nontoxic cyanmethemoglobin. Amyl nitrite is administered by inhalation; its effects are felt within seconds and last several minutes. It has also been misused recreationally due to its psychoactive effects[1][3][4][5][6].

Other names

poppersalkyl nitrite