Cold War-era nerve agent benzilate

Known as BZ, QNB or Agent 15, benzilate blocks chemical signals throughout the central nervous system – the brain and spinal cord – and peripheral nervous system to the rest of the body

Exposure: Symptoms appear after 30 minutes – peak effects occurring within eight hours

Dryness: Decreased glandular secretions in oral pharynx and sweat glands

Hyperthermia: Decreased sweating causes body temperature to rise

Pulmonary aspiration: Stomach contents can enter trachea and lungs, causing asphyxiation

Mydriasis: Blurred vision due to pupillary dilation

Brain: Nerve agent crosses blood-brain barrier, blocking serotonin 5-HT receptors. This leads to sensory overload, vivid hallucinations and delirium. Victim can become comatose

Heart: Buildup of neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, causes constant contraction of muscles, failure of respiratory system and death

Gastrointestinal tract: Spasms, secretions from stomach, pancreas, and gallbladder decrease. Nausea and vomiting occur

Incontinence: Victim urinates and loses control of bowel


Sources: Toxicology Data Network, Chemical Warfare by James Ketchum MD © GRAPHIC NEWS