Abstract

Abstract

The acute effects of tear gases such as oleoresincapsicum and 2-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile are well known. Tear gases cause incapacitating inflammatory response in various tissues and organs including the lungs, eyes, nose, throat, skin and others. The final results on the pulmonary system are toxic pneumonitis, asthma aggravation, bronchitis, and rhinitis. Long term effects are irritant induced asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders. The best way to reduce the hazardous effects of these gases is not to use them at all.