About sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate
Cyanide antidote combination
Used for
- Treatment of acute cyanide poisoning.
Usual adult dose
Adults: sodium nitrite 300 mg IV, followed by sodium thiosulfate 12.5 g IV; repeat doses may be needed.
Usual dose in children
Children: doses are weight-based—sodium nitrite 6 mg/kg IV, followed by sodium thiosulfate 250 mg/kg IV; maximum adult doses.
Common side effects
- Low blood pressure
- Methemoglobinemia
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
Important warnings
- Can cause dangerously low blood pressure and impaired oxygen delivery.
- Use urgently for suspected cyanide poisoning; monitor blood pressure and methemoglobin.
- May be less suitable when smoke inhalation causes carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Treatment requires trained medical professionals.
Pregnancy
Used for life-threatening cyanide poisoning; potential fetal risks must be weighed against the poisoning emergency.
Breastfeeding
There is limited information; emergency treatment may be necessary, with feeding decisions guided by clinicians.
Interactions
- Other medicines that lower blood pressure may increase hypotension.
- Sodium nitrite can worsen methemoglobinemia caused by other medicines or chemicals.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.