Nicholson P J, Ferguson-Smith J, Pemberton M A, Campbell A, Edwards J N, Ferner R E
ICI Chemicals & Polymers Ltd, Billingham, Cleveland, UK.
Occup Med (Lond). 1994 Jul;44(3):125-8. doi: 10.1093/occmed/44.3.125.
Solutions A and B (15.8% ferrous sulfate in 0.3% citric acid and 6% sodium carbonate, respectively) have been available as a first-aid treatment for cyanide ingestion for many decades. Controversy surrounding the efficacy of solutions A and B has existed for much of that time, the main protagonists being in the UK. The current opinion in the UK is that solutions A and B should no longer be used as a first-aid measure in the management of cyanide poisoning. Similarly, oral sodium thiosulfate or activated charcoal should not be used. The recommended first-aid treatment of symptomatic cyanide poisoning is 100% oxygen and amyl nitrite, irrespective of the route of exposure.