Generation of Cyanide Ion by the Reaction of Hexamine and Losartan Potassium with Sodium Hypochlorite

Abstract

The generation of cyanide ions by the reaction of pharmaceuticals containing nitrogen with sodium hypochlorite was examined using 20 different compounds. The generation of cyanide ions was observed in hexamine (hexamethylenetetramine), losartan potassium, metronidazole, and allopurinol. The largest generation was observed in hexamine. In both hexamine and losartan potassium, the amount of cyanide ion formed increased to a maximum at 45-60 min. The generation of cyanide ions was attributed to the formation of nitroso product by oxidizing action of sodium hypochlorite.