Stroma-Free Methemoglobin Solution as an Antidote for Cyanide Poisoning: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Effective treatment of cyanide poisoning requires rapid diagnosis, good supportive treatment and the use of a specific antidote. The currently available antidotes offer demonstrated efficacy along with significant potential adverse side effects. We have investigated an alternate approach to antidote therapy for cyanide poisoning by using Stroma-Free Methemoglobin Solution (SFMS). Rats injected with an LD₁₀₀ intravenous dose of cyanide were treated with SFMS equal to 1.5% of their total body hemoglobin. There was a highly significant increase in the survival rate of the treated group compared to saline controls. The potential advantages of SFMS over current antidotes include an immediate onset of action, rapid elimination of cyanide from the body and a mode of action that doesn't compromise any of the patients' oxygen carrying capacity. SFMS shows promise as a significant adjunct in the treatment of cyanide poisoning.