Alkyl nitrites
Alkyl Nitrites
Alkyl nitrites (pronunciation: al-kil nai-traites) are a group of chemical compounds based upon the molecular structure R-ONO. R is an alkyl group and ONO represents a nitrite group. Alkyl nitrites are used in various applications, including as a component in certain medicines and as a recreational drug, commonly referred to as "poppers".
Etymology
The term "Alkyl" is derived from the German word "Alkyl", which is itself derived from "Alkohol radikal", meaning alcohol radical. The term "Nitrite" comes from the French "nitrite", which is derived from "nitre", an old name for potassium nitrate.
Related Terms
- Amyl Nitrite: A specific type of alkyl nitrite that is used medically for the treatment of heart diseases and angina.
- Isobutyl Nitrite: Another type of alkyl nitrite, often used recreationally.
- Poppers: A slang term for various alkyl nitrites, especially those used recreationally.
- Vasodilation: The process by which blood vessels widen, a common effect of alkyl nitrites.
- Angina: A type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart, often treated with certain types of alkyl nitrites.
Usage
Alkyl nitrites are primarily used for their vasodilating and smooth muscle relaxing effects. They are often used recreationally for their psychoactive effects, and medically for the treatment of heart conditions such as angina.
Health Risks
While alkyl nitrites can have beneficial effects when used properly, misuse can lead to a variety of health risks, including headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, methemoglobinemia, a potentially life-threatening condition.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alkyl nitrites
- Wikipedia's article - Alkyl nitrites
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