Capsaicin, the active ingredient in pepper spray is intended not to be lethal, but it does make treatment difficult. It binds to neuroreceptors and increases irriation which results in swelling, rather like an Asthma attack when inhaled. In this instance it can be very dangerous indeed. It definitely causes bronchoconstriction as well.
The onset is swift (20 seconds) but the duration seems to be only 60 seconds (although I would like to see this verified). While this may be nonproblematical in most subjects, reaction to capsaicin may persist with others. I'd be inclined to worry about an anaphylactic or irritant-spasmodic reaction post exposure more than the actual compound itself.
For swelling, consider treatment with corticosteroids (IV and followup PO), and possibly epinehprine as well. This is a potentially a life threatening injury and should be a red item on the trauma scale, second to massive but controllable bleeding and restorable lethal arrythmia or asystole, in that it has a high chance of suscessful intervention if treated promptly.
The name Pepper Spray comes from the ingredient in Capsicum which comes from the hottest peppers around.
Pepper spray is legal in Georgia.
What will pepper spray do if sprayed on a car
Pepper spray is a device for distracting attackers, animal or human.
As often as there's a need for pepper spray.
police keep their pepper spray in their utility belt.
No, pepper spray is illegal for civilians to possess in Japan.
Yes, pepper spray is legal for civilian use in Philadelphia, but there are restrictions on the amount of pepper spray that can be carried and where it can be used. It is always advisable to check the specific laws and regulations regarding pepper spray in the city to ensure compliance.
yes you can by pepper spray almost any where.
you can get pepper spray in a grocey store or online.
So-called 'pepper spray" (Oleo-Capsaycin) is better.
You would typically use pepper spray when you feel like you are in danger from a person or animal. The pepper spray would deter the attacker and allow you the time to get away from them. Many pepper sprays have a dye in them - making it easier to identify the attacker.