Ammonia solution

Ammonia solution is a solution of ammonia in water, often used for medical purposes, household chemicals, and various industrial processes. It contains about 10% ammonia (NH₃) in aqueous solution. Ammonia solution has alkaline properties and is widely used as a cleaner, disinfectant, and also as a means to remove odors and various contaminants.

In medicine, ammonia solution is sometimes used to neutralize poisons and poisonings, and also as a local irritant for burns or insect bites. However, its use should only be carried out under the supervision of a specialist due to its high alkalinity and potential danger to the skin and mucous membranes.

Indications Ammonia solution

1. Disinfection and cleaning: In household environments, ammonia solution is often used to disinfect and clean various surfaces, such as kitchen countertops, tiles, glass and metal surfaces.
2. Medical Uses: In medicine, it can be used to neutralize poisons and poisonings, as well as to treat skin for certain types of burns or insect bites.
3. Industrial Processes: Ammonia solution also finds use in various industrial processes such as fertilizer production, metal cleaning and chemical compounding.

Release form

Ammonia solution is usually available in the form of a liquid, which is located in glass or plastic containers of various sizes.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Irritant effect:

   • Mucous membranes: When inhaling ammonia vapor, severe irritation of the receptors of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat) occurs. This causes reflex stimulation of the respiratory center in the medulla oblongata, which leads to increased and deepening of breathing.
   • Skin: When applied to the skin, ammonia causes local irritation, increases blood circulation and can be used to treat the skin before injection or as an antiseptic.

2. Reflex stimulation:

   • Respiratory center: Inhalation of ammonia vapor causes reflex stimulation of the respiratory center, which leads to faster and deeper breathing. This is useful for fainting and collapse, when you need to quickly restore normal breathing.
   • Central Nervous System: Inhalation of ammonia causes a short-term stimulation of the central nervous system, which helps bring the patient to consciousness during fainting.

3. Antiseptic action:

   • Antiseptic: Ammonia has antiseptic properties and can be used to treat small wounds and skin before injection.

Medical applications:

1. First aid for fainting:

   • Ammonia solution is used to revive unconscious patients. To do this, moistened cotton wool or gauze is brought to the patient's nose so that he inhales ammonia vapor.

2. Breathing stimulation:

   • Used for short-term stimulation of breathing in various conditions accompanied by respiratory depression.

3. Local irritant:

   • Used externally to treat the skin before injection and as an antiseptic for minor wounds and insect bites.

Pharmacokinetics

Introduction and absorption:

1. Inhalation:

   • When inhaling ammonia vapor, there is a rapid effect on the receptors of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. Absorption of ammonia through mucous membranes is minimal, since the main effect is associated with its local irritant effect.

2. Local application:

   • When applied to the skin, ammonia has a local irritant effect. The substance does not penetrate deeply into tissues and is not absorbed into the systemic circulation in significant quantities.

Distribution:

• During inhalation exposure, ammonia does not enter the systemic circulation in significant quantities. The main action occurs locally in the upper respiratory tract and nasal cavity.
• When applied topically, ammonia is also not distributed systemically, remaining in the application area.

Metabolism:

• Ammonia, which enters the body in small quantities, is metabolized in the liver to urea through the urea cycle (Krebs-Henseleit cycle). However, when using ammonia for medical purposes, the amount of ammonia absorbed is too small to significantly affect metabolic processes.

Withdrawal:

• Small amounts of ammonia entering the systemic circulation are excreted from the body by the kidneys in the form of urea and other metabolic products.

Features:

• Quick onset of action: When used inhalation, the effect occurs quickly, since irritation of the mucous membranes leads to immediate reflex stimulation of the respiratory center.
• Short-term effect: The effect of ammonia is short-lived and ceases soon after the source of inhalation is eliminated or local exposure ceases.

Dosing and administration

To stimulate breathing during fainting:

• Method of application: Moisten cotton wool or gauze with a small amount of ammonia solution (ammonia) and bring it to the patient’s nose at a distance of 5-10 cm. The patient must inhale ammonia vapor. It is important not to bring the cotton wool too close to the nose to avoid burns to the mucous membrane.
• Dose: A small amount of solution is used, enough to cause reflex excitation of the respiratory center.

Local irritant:

• Method of application: Ammonia solution can be used externally to treat the skin before injection or to treat minor wounds and insect bites.
• Dose: Apply a small amount of solution to cotton wool or gauze and gently treat the affected area of skin. Avoid contact of the solution with mucous membranes and eyes.

Antiseptic:

• Method of use: Used to disinfect small wounds and skin before injection.
• Dose: Apply a small amount of solution to cotton wool or gauze and treat the area around the wound or the site of future injection.

Use Ammonia solution during pregnancy

1. Ammonia Toxicity: Ammonia is toxic and inhalation can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, eyes and skin. High levels of ammonia can cause serious damage to the respiratory system and overall toxic effects on the body. During pregnancy, it is especially important to avoid exposure to toxic substances, as they can harm both the mother and the fetus (Dominguini et al., 2020).
2. Effects on the fetal nervous system: Studies have shown that exposure to ammonia during pregnancy can cause brain damage in newborns and lead to long-term cognitive impairment. Ammonia can cause oxidative stress and damage to proteins in the fetal brain, which subsequently affects the child's cognitive function (Dominguini et al., 2020).
3. Recommendations for use: Pregnant women should avoid using ammonia solutions, especially in poorly ventilated areas. If it is necessary to use ammonia for domestic purposes, it is recommended to wear protective gloves and a mask, and ensure that the area is well ventilated (Byrne, 2010).
4. Ammonia Alternatives: As an alternative to ammonia solutions, you can use safer, natural cleaning products that do not contain toxic substances. For example, vinegar and baking soda can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces without risking maternal or fetal health (Byrne, 2010).

Contraindications

Main contraindications:

1. Increased sensitivity:

   • Presence of allergic reactions to ammonia or other components of the solution.

2. Bronchial asthma:

   • The use of ammonia solution can cause bronchospasm and worsen the condition in patients with bronchial asthma.

3. Respiratory tract diseases:

   • Severe respiratory conditions, such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema, may be worsened by ammonia use.

4. Skin diseases:

   • The presence of inflammatory or allergic skin diseases at the site of intended application.

5. Children's age:

   • The use of ammonia in young children should be done with caution and only under medical supervision.

Special warnings:

1. Pregnancy and lactation:

   • The use of ammonia solution during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be done with caution, only if absolutely necessary and under the supervision of a physician.

2. Oral administration:

   • Ammonia is strictly contraindicated for oral administration due to its high toxicity and the possibility of serious burns to the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines.

3. Damage to mucous membranes:

   • It is not recommended to use ammonia if there is damage to the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth.

4. Solution concentration:

   • Using an ammonia solution that is too concentrated can cause severe irritation and burns. Typically a 10% ammonia solution is used.

Side effects Ammonia solution

Main side effects:

1. Irritation of mucous membranes:

   • Nose: Inhaling ammonia vapor can cause severe irritation of the nasal mucosa, causing sneezing, runny nose and burning.
   • Throat: A burning and sore throat may occur when exposed to ammonia vapor.
   • Eyes: Ammonia fumes can cause watery, burning, and red eyes.

2. Cough and bronchospasm:

   • Inhalation of ammonia can cause coughing, and in people with hypersensitivity, bronchospasm and difficulty breathing.

3. Allergic reactions:

   • Allergic reactions to ammonia can occur, including rash, itching, hives, and, in rare cases, anaphylactic shock.

4. Headache and dizziness:

   • Inhaling ammonia can cause headaches and dizziness, especially with prolonged exposure or high vapor concentrations.

5. Nausea and vomiting:

   • The strong odor of ammonia can cause nausea and vomiting, especially in sensitive people.

6. Local reactions on the skin:

   • When applied to the skin, burning, redness and irritation may occur.

Serious side effects (if used incorrectly):

1. Chemical burns:

   • Concentrated ammonia solution can cause chemical burns to the skin and mucous membranes upon direct contact.

2. Laryngeal edema:

   • In rare cases, swelling of the larynx may occur, which requires immediate medical attention.

3. Severe bronchospasm:

   • In patients with asthma or chronic lung disease, inhalation of ammonia can cause severe bronchospasm.

Overdose

Signs of overdose:

1. If inhaled:

   • Severe irritation of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat
   • Cough
   • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
   • Bronchospasm (especially in people with asthma)
   • Headache
   • Dizziness
   • Nausea and vomiting

2. In case of contact with skin and mucous membranes:

   • Burning and pain
   • Redness and irritation of the skin
   • Chemical burns of the skin
   • Tearing and burning in the eyes (in case of contact with the eyes)

3. In case of accidental ingestion:

   • Burns of the mucous membrane of the mouth, throat, esophagus and stomach
   • Severe abdominal pain
   • Nausea and vomiting
   • Swelling of the throat, making breathing difficult
   • Systemic effects such as metabolic alkalosis are possible

First aid measures:

1. In case of inhalation:

   • Immediately remove victim to fresh air.
   • Keep calm and keep warm.
   • If symptoms persist or worsen, call an ambulance.

2. Skin contact:

   • Take off contaminated clothing.
   • Rinse affected skin area with plenty of running water for at least 15 minutes.
   • Seek medical attention if necessary.

3. Eye contact:

   • Rinse eyes immediately with plenty of running water or saline solution for 15 minutes.
   • Avoid rubbing eyes.
   • Seek medical attention, especially if symptoms do not pass.

4. In case of accidental ingestion:

   • Call emergency medical help immediately.
   • Do not induce vomiting.
   • Rinse mouth with water.
   • If possible, give the victim a small amount of water or milk to drink (if conscious and having no difficulty swallowing) to dilute the ammonia.

Overdose treatment:

• Treatment of ammonia overdose in a healthcare facility may include:
  • Maintaining a clear airway and administering oxygen.
  • Symptomatic treatment of burns and mucous membrane irritation.
  • Hospitalization and observation of the patient if necessary.

Overdose Prevention:

• Follow the directions for use carefully.
• Keep ammonia solution out of reach of children.
• Use only recommended doses and directions of administration.
• Avoid prolonged inhalation of ammonia vapors.
• Do not use internally.

Interactions with other drugs

Interactions and compatibility:

1. Cough suppressants:

   • Antitussives: The use of ammonia inhalation solution in the presence of antitussives (such as codeine) may be contraindicated because ammonia stimulates the cough reflex, while antitussives suppress it, which may make it difficult to clear sputum.

2. Remedies for topical use:

   • Antiseptics and irritants: When used in combination with other local irritants or antiseptics, an increased irritant effect on the skin or mucous membranes may occur.

3. Antibiotics and antivirals:

   • Systemic antibiotics and antivirals do not have a direct interaction with ammonia when applied topically, but the possibility of irritation and inflammation should be considered when applied to damaged skin or mucous membranes.

4. Inhalation preparations:

   • Bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids: When using ammonia solution and bronchodilators or inhaled corticosteroids at the same time, increased irritation of the respiratory tract may occur. Caution should be exercised and a physician should be consulted before concurrent use.

5. Skin care products:

   • When using an ammonia solution with other skin care products (for example, creams, ointments), reactions associated with increased skin sensitivity are possible. Separate use or consultation with a doctor is recommended.

Special instructions:

• Avoid combining with harsh chemicals: It is not recommended to combine ammonia solution with other strong alkalis or acids to avoid chemical reactions that could cause tissue damage or the formation of harmful substances.
• Consultation with a doctor: Before using ammonia solution together with other drugs, especially in patients with chronic respiratory diseases or skin diseases, it is recommended to consult a doctor.