Lewisite is a vesicant agent and is considered a suspect carcinogen. Exposure to Lewisite causes intense pain on contact. Exposure to the eyes, if not decontaminated immediately, will result in permanent injury or possible blindness within 1 minute of exposure. When inhaled in high concentrations, it may be fatal in as short a time as 10 minutes. Lewisite can cause sensitization and chronic lung impairment.
G agents are anticholinesterase compounds.
Their effects are referable to stimulation of the autonomic and central nervous systems resulting from the inhibition of the cholinesterase enzymes in the tissues and the resultant accumulation of acetylcholine at its various sites of action. Since VX has a low volatility, liquid droplets on the skin do not evaporate quickly thereby facilitating effective percutaneous absorption. All rights reserved.