Category: Toxicology
Keywords: Riot control agent, Mace, pepper spray, tear gas (PubMed Search)
Posted: 6/4/2020 by Hong Kim, MD
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Over the past several days, riot control agents have been used against the protest participants (related to Mr. George Floyd’s death). There are 3 widely used riot control “lacrimating” agents:
These agents (irritants) primarily affect the eye, skin, and respiratory tract.
Organ | Effect | Management |
Eyes | · Lacrimination · Blepharospasm · Conjunctiva irritation/conjunctivitis · Periorbital edema · Corneal abrasions | · Copious H20/saline irrigation with Morgan Lensor Nasal Cannula jury-rig · Slit lamp exam for corneal abrasions |
Skin | · Burning sensation · Blister · Contact dermatitis · 2nd degree burns (mace) | · Wash with soap and water · Wound care |
Airway/respiratory tract | · Respiratory tract irritation · Rhinorrhea · Laryngospasm · Bronchospasm · Chemical pneumonitis | · B2-agonists for bronchospasm · Steroids if worsening underlying reactive airway disease · CXR to evaluate for possible pneumonitis · Supplementary oxygen as needed |
Mangement: