The Presentation and Management of Individuals Contaminated with Solutions of Dibenzoxazepine (CR)

Abstract

Dibenz(b. f)-1, 4-oxazepine (CR) is a highly potent irritant to both the eyes and skin of man; it is more potent than the riot control agent chloracetophenone although apparently less toxic. Observations have been made on the effects of CR in weak solutions (up to 0.1 per cent) on more than 150 volunteers. Splashed on to the face these solutions cause pain, blepharospasm, and lacrimation lasting about twenty minutes, a transient injection of conjunctival vessels, and erythema of the lid margins; there is no structural damage to the eye. There is a burning sensation in affected skin, and a well delineated erythema; sensitization does not occur. Solution entering the mouth causes a short-lived burning sensation, excessive salivation, sore throat, and rhinorrhoea. The general acute discomfort causes a transient increase in blood-pressure. These short-lived effects are unaccompanied by the risks for long-term damage, such as may occur with the use of chloracetophenone. Treatment is palliative and includes reassurance, removal of contaminated clothing, washing of the eyes and skin; eye pain can be relieved with amethocaine.