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Medicines sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfateQuestion & answer

sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate · Medicine question

Why can sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate cause blue or grey skin?

iatroX medicinesPublished 21 August 2026Reviewed 21 August 2026

The answer

Answer

Sodium nitrite forms methaemoglobin. Excessive levels reduce oxygen delivery and may cause cyanosis, breathlessness and cardiovascular instability.

Sources for this answer

Nithiodoteemc · SmPC Current selected SmPC · Version 2

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The full medicine guide

sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate

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Is sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate an antidote for cyanide poisoning?Why does sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate contain two antidotes?Is sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate used after every possible cyanide exposure?How is sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate administered?Does sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate replace oxygen treatment?Why is blood pressure monitored with sodium nitrite + sodium thiosulfate?