Sodium Nitrite Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 24, 2024.

Applies to sodium nitrite: intravenous solution.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

• This drug may cause low blood pressure and a red blood cell problem called methemoglobinemia.

  These may be life-threatening.

  This drug is only for use when cyanide poisoning is life-threatening.

  This drug must be used with care if it is not known if cyanide poisoning has happened.

  Talk with the doctor.

• Tell your doctor if you have inhaled a lot of smoke or if you have any of these health problems: Anemia, heart problems, lack of a certain enzyme called congenital methemoglobin reductase deficiency, or lung problems.

Serious side effects of sodium nitrite

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Signs of methemoglobinemia like a blue or gray color of the lips, nails, or skin; a heartbeat that does not feel normal; seizures; very bad dizziness or passing out; very bad headache; feeling very sleepy; feeling tired or weak; or shortness of breath. This effect is rare but may be deadly if it happens.
• Signs of too much acid in the blood (acidosis) like confusion; fast breathing; fast heartbeat; a heartbeat that does not feel normal; very bad stomach pain, upset stomach, or throwing up; feeling very sleepy; shortness of breath; or feeling very tired or weak.
• Very bad dizziness or passing out.
• A fast heartbeat.
• A heartbeat that does not feel normal.
• Feeling confused.
• Blurred eyesight.
• Seizures.
• Numbness and tingling.
• Fast breathing.
• Shortness of breath.

Other side effects of sodium nitrite

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Dizziness.
• Flushing.
• Headache.
• Upset stomach or throwing up.
• Belly pain.
• Bad taste in your mouth.
• Anxiety.
• Sweating a lot.
• Feeling tired or weak.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to sodium nitrite: compounding powder, intravenous solution.

Cardiovascular adverse events

• Frequency not reported: Hypotension, tachycardia, palpitations, dysrhythmia, severe hypotension, cyanosis, vasodilation resulting in syncope^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Urticaria, diaphoresis^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Frequency not reported: Methemoglobinemia^[Ref]

Local

• Frequency not reported: Injection site tingling^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Frequency not reported: Acidosis^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Syncope, headache, dizziness, seizures, confusion, coma, lightheadedness, generalized numbness and tingling^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Anxiety^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Tachypnea, dyspnea^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Fatigue, weakness, death^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Blurred vision^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Sodium nitrite side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer