Guide to the Management of BZ Casualties

Abstract

BZ is a very potent psychoactive compound that is employed in chemical munitions to produce mental and physical incapacitation. Its pharmacological action is similar to that of other anticholinergic drugs (atropine, scopolamine, etc.) but longer lasting. If used in a chemical munition, BZ, in the form of an aerosol, would enter the body by inhalation. Its effects would begin to become evident 30-60 minutes after exposure, and its maximum effect would be reached in 4 to 8 hours. Signs and symptoms are increased heart rate, dry skin and mouth, mydriasis and blurred vision, ataxia, disorientation and confusion, progressing to stupor. If casualties are untreated, then 3 or 4 days are required for full recovery from the effects of BZ intoxication. It is important that all medical personnel not only understand the action of BZ but be fully prepared to handle BZ-induced mass casualties. The purpose of this booklet is to serve as a guide to the management of BZ casualties and to the medical materiel requirement.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1965
Accession Number
ADA578520

Entities

Organizations

  • Edgewood Chemical Biological Center

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Atropine
  • Biomedical Research
  • Casualties
  • Central Nervous System
  • Fruit Juices
  • Heart Rate
  • Heat Stroke
  • Medical Personnel
  • Military Research
  • Munitions
  • Nervous System
  • Neurobehavioral Manifestations
  • Operations Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Salicylates
  • Security
  • Signs And Symptoms

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Brain and Cognitive Science; Experimental Psychology; Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Cardiovascular Physiology
  • Environmental Engineering.