What Is the Antidote for Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is a defense mechanism that emits a high-pressure spray containing oleoresin capsicum. This ingredient causes an intense burning sensation in the eyes and on the skin. It is meant to ward off attackers, but pepper spray can blow back onto you or go off accidentally, and you will need treatment.

Identification

• Cool water is an effective antidote for eyes that have been exposed to pepper spray. Flush water into the affected eyes for 15 minutes. If you wear contacts, carefully remove them before flushing. Flushing affected skin with cool water can help to alleviate pain as well, but a more immediate antidote for the skin is cool air. Face the affected skin directly into a cool breeze; the active ingredient will evaporate quickly.

Considerations

• Pepper spray antidote products are also available. These products include wipes, sprays and liquids that specifically target the oleoresin capsicum in pepper spray.

Warning

• Do not rub any affected areas with your hands or a towel. Do not apply lotion, creams or oil-based products to the sprayed skin, as such actions could aggravate the affected area. Wear latex or rubber gloves when helping someone neutralize pepper spray, to avoid spreading the active ingredient onto your skin. Go to the hospital if you still exhibit symptoms after decontamination.