Acute oral toxicity of butyl nitrite

Butyl nitrite is present in consumer products subject to abuse by inhalation. When inhaled, intense peripheral vasodilation and tachycardia ensue, described by users as a 'rush'. When ingested, toxic sequelae include methemoglobinemia and hypokinetic anoxia. The median lethal oral dose to rats of this compound is, with 95% confidence, 83 +/- 3.5 mg kg-1.