This file provides information for persons who may have been exposed to ammonia gas or ammonium hydroxide solution. Ammonia is a colorless, highly irritating gas with a sharp, suffocating odor. It easily dissolves in water to form a caustic solution called ammonium hydroxide.
Ammonia is among the five most abundantly produced chemicals in the world.
It is also used as a refrigerant and in the manufacture of plastics, explosives, pesticides, and other chemicals. It is found in many household and industrial-strength cleaning solutions. Most exposures to ammonia are by breathing the gas. Even with very short or low-level exposures, most people will notice the pungent odor and experience burning of the eyes, nose, and throat. With higher doses, coughing or choking may occur.