ABSTRACT
The toxicity of HCN inhaled via the respiratory tract in dogs and the therapeutic effects of DMAP and AmNO2 for such form of HCN intoxication were studied. The LD50 of HCN when inhaled was 850.4?80.4?g/kg.When the dosage of 2?LD50 of HCN was given to the experimental animals, the signs of intoxication developed rapidly. Uneasiness, struggling, strident barking, and respiratory excitation were observed several seconds after the exposure. Subsequently there was spasm of the extensors and rigidity of the extremities. Finally general inhibition and paralysis ensued. Respiration and heart beat stopped 6 and 7 minutes after exposure. If DMAP (3.25 mg/kg intramuscularly) or AmNO2 (2 ampules through inhalation) was administered 15 seconds after exposure, the survival rate of the animals was 90% or 100% respectively.When the dosage of 4?LD50 of HCN was inhaled and the two drugs were administered 45 seconds after exposure, the survival rate of the animals treated with DMAP remained as high as 90% (9/10) .But the survival rate of those treated with two ampules of AmNO2 or even three ampules reduced to 20% or 40% respectively.The amount of HCN inhaled during respiratory intoxication, the problems of early diagnosis and the administration of DMAP at the site of accident were analyzed and discussed.