Large amounts taken by
mouth may produce nausea, vomiting,
cyanosis (due to methemoglobin formation),
collapse, and coma. Repeated small doses
cause a fall in blood pressure, rapid pulse,
headache, and visual dsturbances. They
have been implicated in an increased incidence of cancer. They may react with
organic amines in the body to form
carcinogenic nitrosamines. Organic nitrites
are used to treat angina pectoris. Fire
hazards are variable. They are generally
powerful oxidzers. On contact with readily
oxidzed materials, a violent reaction such as
a fire or explosion may ensue. Explosion
hazards are also variable. Organic nitrites
may decompose violently in contact with
NH4, salts, cyanide, KCN. Dangerous;
shock may explode them; can react
vigorously with reducing materials. When
heated to decomposition they emit highly
toxic fumes of NO,. See also SODIUM
NITRITE and specific compounds.
