0.3mL is supplied in a covered thin glass capsule which is easily crushed between the fingers.
Amyl nitrite is a clear, yellowish liquid having a peculiar ethereal, fruity odour.
It is volatile, even at low temperatures, and is flammable. Uses Actions Amyl nitrite causes a non-specific relaxation of smooth muscle with the most prominant actions occurring in vascular smooth muscle. This effect on vascular smooth muscle results in coronary vasodilation and decreased systemic vascular resistance and left ventricular preload and afterload. Additionally, amyl nitrite induces the formation of methemoglobin. In cases of cyanide poisoning, the methemoglobin combines with the cyanide to form nontoxic cyanmethemoglobin.