Cyanide Poisoning Sorry, your browser doesn't suppor Java. Cyanide inhibits mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase and hence blocks electron transport, resulting in decreased oxidative metabolism and oxygen utilization.
Lactic acidosis occurs as a consequence of anaerobic metabolism.
The oxygen metabolism at the cell level is grossly hampered. Cyanide is rapidly absorbed from the stomach, lungs, mucosal surfaces, and unbroken skin. The lethal dose of potassium or sodium cyanide is 200 to 300 mg and of hydrocyanic acid is 50 mg. Effects begin within seconds of inhalation and within 30 min of ingestion. Initial effects of poisoning - include headache, faintness, vertigo, excitement, anxiety, a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, breathing difficulty, increased heart rate, and hypertension.