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Hazards of Potassium Bromide

Potassium bromide is a white crystalline salt that was used as a sedative in the late 19th and early 20th century. It is also used in photography. Potassium bromide is odorless. This compound is harmful and effects the nervous system if swallowed, inhaled or exposed to the eyes.

  1. Inhalation

    • If potassium bromide is inhaled, this compound causes irritation to the respiratory tract. Symptoms from inhaling potassium bromide include coughing, sore throat and shortness of breath. In work areas where potassium bromide is used, proper ventilation systems should be in place to keep exposure as low as possible. "Industrial Ventilation, A Manual of Recommended Practices" suggests using a local exhaust ventilation system to keep exposure to this compound low. If potassium bromide is inhaled, the person should be moved to fresh air immediately. If unconscious or if the person starts wheezing, coughing or develop a burning sensation in the mouth, seek medical attention promptly so that oxygen and other medical procedures may be administered.

    Ingestion

    • If potassium bromide is ingested it may cause nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain. Usually, the person who ingests this compound will reject it through vomiting. However, never induce vomiting if a person ingests potassium bromide. Symptoms of potassium bromide ingestion include skin rash, blurred vision or drowsiness. The person may also be irritable and dizzy. More serious symptoms are mania, hallucinations or coma. If potassium bromide is ingested, call the poison control center and, if the person is conscious and not convulsing, give one to two glasses of water--this dilutes the compound in the body. If person is unconscious or convulsing, seek medial attention immediately.

    Skin and Eyes

    • Exposure of potassium bromide to the skin can cause mild irritation resulting in redness, pain or skin burns. If eyes make contact with the compound, some redness and pain can also occur. With skin exposure to potassium bromide, remove all exposed clothing and flood affected skin with water. Continue to wash skin with soap and water. If eyes makes contact with the compound, also flush them with water for at least 20 minutes. In both cases, seek medical attention or transport victims to the nearest emergency room.

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