VR (nerve agent)
Overview of the nerve agent VR
Overview
VR, also known as "Russian VX," is a nerve agent that belongs to the class of organophosphates. It is chemically similar to VX, one of the most well-known nerve agents, but differs slightly in its molecular structure. VR is a highly toxic compound that affects the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, leading to an accumulation of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft and continuous stimulation of muscles, glands, and central nervous system structures.
Chemical Properties
VR is an organophosphorus compound with the chemical formula C11H26NO2PS. It is a clear, colorless to amber-colored liquid at room temperature. The compound is odorless and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without specialized equipment. Like other nerve agents, VR is highly lipophilic, allowing it to penetrate biological membranes easily.
Mechanism of Action
The primary mechanism of action of VR is the inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, in the synaptic cleft. When acetylcholinesterase is inhibited, acetylcholine accumulates, leading to continuous stimulation of cholinergic receptors. This results in muscle paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death if not treated promptly.
Symptoms of Exposure
Exposure to VR can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Symptoms of exposure include:
- Miosis (constricted pupils)
- Rhinorrhea (runny nose)
- Bronchoconstriction
- Muscle twitching
- Seizures
- Respiratory distress
- Loss of consciousness
Treatment
The treatment for VR exposure involves the administration of antidotes such as atropine and pralidoxime. Atropine works by blocking the effects of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, while pralidoxime reactivates acetylcholinesterase. Supportive care, including ventilation and oxygen therapy, is also critical in managing severe cases.
History and Development
VR was developed during the Cold War as part of the Soviet Union's chemical weapons program. It was designed to be a more potent alternative to VX, with similar properties but increased toxicity. The existence of VR was not widely known until after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, when details of the program were revealed.
Related pages
Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.
W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:
- Most insurances accepted or discounted self-pay rates. We will obtain insurance prior authorizations if needed.
- Generic GLP1 weight loss injections from $125 for the starting dose.
- Also offer prescription weight loss medications including Phentermine, Qsymia, Diethylpropion, Contrave etc.
NYC weight loss doctor appointments
Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.
- Call 718-946-5500 to lose weight in NYC or for medical weight loss in Philadelphia 215-676-2334.
- Tags:NYC medical weight loss, Philadelphia lose weight Zepbound NYC, Budget GLP1 weight loss injections, Wegovy Philadelphia, Wegovy NYC, Philadelphia medical weight loss, Brookly weight loss and Wegovy NYC
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD