Isobutyl nitrite explained

Isobutyl nitrite, C4H9NO2, is an alkyl nitrite, an ester of isobutanol and nitrous acid. Its chemical structure is (CH3)2CH-CH2-ONO.

Isobutyl nitrite is a pungent colorless liquid. It acts as a vasodilator, and is used as an inhalant recreational drug, poppers.

Applications

Isobutyl nitrite is one of the compounds used as poppers, an inhalant drug that induces a brief euphoria. Also, it is used as part of the antidote package for cyanide poisoning.

Safety

May cause headaches, dizziness and fainting. Isobutyl nitrite is poisonous to people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.[1]

Notes and References

  1. Bubp . Jeff . Jen . Marilyn . Matuszewski . Karl . September 2015 . Caring for Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD)–Deficient Patients: Implications for Pharmacy . Pharmacy and Therapeutics . 40 . 9 . 572–574 . 1052-1372 . 4571844 . 26417175.