Amyl Nitrite

Generic name: Amyl Nitrite [ AM-il-NYE-trite ]
Drug class: Antianginal agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 1, 2024.

Uses of Amyl Nitrite:

• It is used to treat chest pain or pressure.
• It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Amyl Nitrite?

• If you have an allergy to amyl nitrite or any other part of amyl nitrite.
• If you are allergic to amyl nitrite; any part of amyl nitrite; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
• If you have any of these health problems: Bleeding in the brain, glaucoma, or head injury.

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with amyl nitrite.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take amyl nitrite with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Amyl Nitrite?

• Tell all of your health care providers that you take amyl nitrite. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down. Be careful going up and down stairs.
• Talk with your doctor before you drink alcohol.
• If you have been taking amyl nitrite for a long time or at high doses, it may not work as well and you may need higher doses to get the same effect. This is known as tolerance. Call your doctor if amyl nitrite stops working well. Do not take more than ordered.
• This medicine may catch on fire. Do not use near an open flame or while smoking.
• This medicine may cause harm to the unborn baby if you take it while you are pregnant. If you are pregnant or you get pregnant while taking amyl nitrite, call your doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.

How is this medicine (Amyl Nitrite) best taken?

Use amyl nitrite as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• For breathing in through the nose only.
• Your doctor may teach you how to use.
• Follow how to use carefully.
• You will need to be seated or lying down when you take amyl nitrite.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• This medicine is used on an as needed basis. Do not use more often than told by the doctor.
• Call your doctor to find out what to do.

Related/similar drugs

amlodipine, aspirin, metoprolol, carvedilol, atenolol, propranolol, hydroxocobalamin, sodium thiosulfate, Cyanokit, Nithiodote

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Signs of methemoglobinemia like a blue or gray color of the lips, nails, or skin; a heartbeat that does not feel normal; seizures; very bad dizziness or passing out; very bad headache; feeling very sleepy; feeling tired or weak; or shortness of breath. This effect is rare but may be deadly if it happens.
• Very bad dizziness or passing out.
• Not able to control stools or urine.
• Pale skin.
• Cold sweats.
• A fast heartbeat.
• Restlessness.
• Very upset stomach or throwing up.

What are some other side effects of Amyl Nitrite?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Dizziness.
• Flushing.
• Headache.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Amyl Nitrite?

• Store in a refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• Protect from light.
• Protect from heat or open flame.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

• If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
• Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
• Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about amyl nitrite, please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer