Capsaicin lethality

Capsaicin is also the active ingredient in the chemical riot control agent, pepper spray. When the spray comes in contact with skin, especially eyes or mucous membranes, it is very painful. In large quantities, capsaicin can be a lethal poison. Symptoms of overdose include difficulty in breathing, blue skin and convulsions and uncontrollable, painful nipple erections. Even though the... 

Capsaicin High Rapid A range is given when more than one value has been reported. Minimum lethal concentration for 10-min exposure. U) (-) (-)... 

There have been a number of sudden deaths in the United States of delirious and combative males sprayed with pepper spray by law-enforcement officers. Cocaine was implicated in nearly half the cases investigated, and animal testing suggests that exposure to the capsaicin (see p53) in the pepper spray increases the drug s lethality. 

Capsaicin (12.3) is the active, hot, ingredient in chili peppers. It has found uses medicinally in ointments to relieve neuropathic pain such as that in shingles and is widely employed as oleoresin capsicum (OC) or pepper spray for personal defense and as a non-lethal agent in riot control. It is a potent lachrymator and causes pain to the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes and temporary breathing difficulties. Its use in warfare is prohibited... 

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