Vascular relaxation occurs due to stimulation of intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate. As an antidote to cyanide poisoning, amyl nitrite promotes formation of methemoglobin which combines with cyanide to form the nontoxic cyanmethemoglobin. Diagnostic aid to assess reserve cardiac function. Use in children has not been studied.
Hypotensive effects are more likely to occur in geriatric clients.
Dosage Inhalation Angina pectoris. Usually, 1-6 inhalations from one container produces relief. Dosage may be repeated after 3-5 min. Antidote for cyanide poisoning.