Amyl Nitrite
Amyl nitrite is a rapid-acting vasodilator used primarily as an antidote for cyanide poisoning and occasionally for relief of angina symptoms. It works by relaxing smooth muscles in blood vessel walls, causing vessels to widen and allowing increased blood flow. This medication is administered by inhalation and has a very short duration of action.
Amyl nitrite is a short-acting vasodilator primarily used as an antidote for cyanide poisoning.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C01DA05
- RxNorm
- 1760
- Generic
- Amyl Nitrite
- Class
- atc-v03
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- unknown
- Half-life (h)
- 0.05
- Onset (min)
- 0
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- nasal
- Forms
- crushable ampules, inhalation liquid
- Regions
- United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, European Union
- Monitoring
- blood pressure, heart rate, methemoglobin level
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of cyanide poisoning (as part of the Cyanide Antidote Kit), occasional relief of acute anginal chest pain when other medications are unavailable.
Releases nitric oxide that activates guanylate cyclase, increasing cyclic GMP in vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to relaxation and vasodilation.
Contraindicated with phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitors due to severe hypotension risk. Causes methemoglobinemia at higher doses. May cause severe hypotension, headache, and dizziness. Has been used recreationally but carries significant health risks.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy