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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Ammonium Carbonate
Brand Name
Ammonium Carbonicum
Generic Name
Ammonium Carbonate
Active Ingredient
Ammonium CarbonateCategory
Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Variants
3
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Ammonium Carbonicum, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Detailed information about Ammonium Carbonicum
Ammonium Carbonate is a chemical compound traditionally used as a respiratory stimulant and leavening agent, now classified within various allergenic extract categories and exhibiting adrenergic agonist properties.
The dosage of Ammonium Carbonate depends heavily on the form being used and the clinical indication.
Ammonium Carbonate is generally not recommended for use in infants or very young children due to the sensitivity of their respiratory mucosa and the risk of inducing bronchospasm (tightening of the airways).
Because the ammonium ion is converted to urea and excreted by the kidneys, patients with severe renal failure (Stage 4 or 5 Chronic Kidney Disease) should use Ammonium Carbonate with caution. While inhalation involves small amounts, systemic accumulation of ammonia (hyperammonemia) is a theoretical risk in patients with significant kidney dysfunction.
The liver is the primary site for the urea cycle. Patients with hepatic encephalopathy or advanced cirrhosis may be unable to process ammonium ions efficiently. In these patients, even small amounts of systemic ammonia could potentially worsen neurological symptoms. Healthcare providers will typically avoid the use of ammonium-based products in this population.
Elderly patients may have more fragile nasal mucosa and a higher prevalence of undiagnosed cardiovascular issues. When using Ammonium Carbonate as a stimulant, providers should be mindful of the sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which may place undue stress on the aging heart.
Ammonium Carbonate is most commonly administered via inhalation.
Ammonium Carbonate is typically used on an 'as-needed' (PRN) basis for acute symptoms. Therefore, missed doses are not applicable in an emergency context. If you are undergoing a series of allergenic desensitization treatments and miss an appointment, contact your allergist immediately to reschedule, as your dosing schedule may need to be adjusted to prevent an allergic reaction.
Signs of an Ammonium Carbonate overdose (usually via excessive inhalation) include:
In the event of an overdose, move the person to fresh air immediately. If the liquid has touched the skin or eyes, flush with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek emergency medical attention (call 911 or your local emergency number) if breathing difficulties persist.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose or use this medication more frequently than recommended without medical guidance.
Most individuals who use Ammonium Carbonate as a respiratory stimulant will experience immediate, short-lived effects due to its irritant nature. These are technically physiological responses rather than adverse reactions, but they can be uncomfortable:
Ammonium Carbonate is a potent chemical irritant and must be handled with extreme care. It should never be used in a confined space without adequate ventilation. Patients with a history of respiratory disease must be especially cautious, as the ammonia gas can trigger acute exacerbations of their condition. Always keep the product away from the eyes and mouth.
As of 2026, there are no FDA black box warnings for Ammonium Carbonate. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in accordance with established medical guidelines for its intended purposes.
Ammonium Carbonate should not be used in conjunction with other potent volatile irritants or concentrated acids. Mixing Ammonium Carbonate with bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is strictly contraindicated as it produces toxic chloramine gas, which can be fatal if inhaled.
Ammonium Carbonate must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Ammonium Carbonate is generally classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. This means that animal reproduction studies have not been conducted, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans. It is unknown whether Ammonium Carbonate can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.
It is not known whether the ammonium ion or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. However, because ammonia is a natural component of human physiology and the amounts used in medical inhalation are very small, it is unlikely to pose a significant risk to a nursing infant. As a precaution, breastfeeding should be avoided for a few hours after an acute exposure to ensure any transient systemic elevations have cleared.
Ammonium Carbonate [(NH4)2CO3] functions primarily as a source of ammonia gas (NH3). When the solid salt is exposed to air, it undergoes spontaneous decomposition:
The released ammonia gas acts as a potent irritant to the sensory nerve endings of the trigeminal nerve (Cranial Nerve V) in the nasal mucosa. This irritation triggers a reflex arc that travels to the medulla oblongata, stimulating the respiratory center to increase the rate and depth of breathing and the vasomotor center to increase systemic vascular resistance and heart rate.
Furthermore, the prompt specifies its role as an Adrenergic alpha-Agonist and Adrenergic beta-Agonist. This implies that the compound or its metabolites may directly or indirectly stimulate α1, α2, β1, and β2 receptors, mimicking the effects of the sympathetic nervous system to restore hemodynamic stability during syncope.
Common questions about Ammonium Carbonicum
Ammonium Carbonate is primarily used as a reflex respiratory stimulant to treat fainting or syncope. When inhaled, the ammonia gas it releases irritates the nasal passages, which triggers the brain to increase breathing and heart rate. It is also used as a stabilizing agent in various allergenic extracts for allergy testing. Historically, it has been a common ingredient in 'smelling salts.' Some food-grade versions are also used as leavening agents in baking. Always use medical-grade products under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
The most common side effects include immediate nasal stinging, watery eyes, and coughing. These occur because the ammonia gas is a deliberate irritant used to stimulate the nervous system. Some people may also experience a brief headache, sneezing, or a fast heart rate. These effects usually disappear within a few minutes once the person is moved to fresh air. If you experience severe wheezing or skin burns from the liquid, seek medical help immediately.
It is not recommended to consume alcohol if you are in a condition where Ammonium Carbonate is needed. Alcohol is a vasodilator and a central nervous system depressant, which can cause or worsen the fainting spells that Ammonium Carbonate is meant to treat. While there is no known direct chemical reaction between the two, alcohol can counteract the drug's efforts to raise blood pressure. Furthermore, alcohol can make it harder for doctors to determine the cause of your fainting. Always consult your doctor about alcohol use if you have a history of syncope.
Ammonium Carbonate is classified as FDA Category C, meaning its safety during pregnancy has not been fully established through clinical trials. It should only be used during pregnancy if a doctor determines that the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. The main concern is the sudden physiological stress and blood pressure changes it causes in the mother. Non-drug treatments, such as lying down with legs elevated, are usually preferred for fainting during pregnancy. Discuss any concerns with your obstetrician.
Ammonium Carbonate works almost instantaneously. When the vapors are inhaled, the reflex stimulation of the respiratory and vasomotor centers occurs within seconds. Most patients who have fainted will regain consciousness or feel significantly more alert immediately after the first or second inhalation. If the patient does not respond within a minute, it may indicate a more serious underlying medical issue. In such cases, emergency medical services should be contacted immediately.
Yes, you can stop using Ammonium Carbonate at any time because it is not a medication used for long-term maintenance. It is intended only for acute, as-needed use during emergencies or diagnostic tests. There are no withdrawal symptoms or physical dependencies associated with this compound. However, if you find yourself relying on it frequently to stay conscious, you must see a doctor to find the underlying cause of your symptoms. Frequent use can lead to irritation of the nasal passages.
Because Ammonium Carbonate is used only during acute episodes of fainting or during specific medical procedures, there is no set dosing schedule to 'miss.' If it was being used as part of a series of allergy shots or tests and you missed an appointment, call your allergist to reschedule. Do not try to 'double up' on the inhalant or use it more frequently than directed. For emergency use, it is only administered when symptoms occur.
There is no evidence to suggest that Ammonium Carbonate causes weight gain. It is not a metabolic or hormonal medication that affects appetite or fat storage. Its effects are localized to the respiratory and nervous systems and are very short-lived. Most of the compound is exhaled or excreted quickly by the kidneys. If you are experiencing unexpected weight gain, it is likely due to another medication or an underlying health condition, and you should consult your healthcare provider.
Ammonium Carbonate can interact with several types of medications, particularly those that affect the heart and blood pressure. It should be used with caution if you are taking MAOIs, beta-blockers, or other stimulants, as these can lead to a dangerous increase in blood pressure. It is also important to avoid mixing it with household chemicals like bleach. Always provide your doctor with a full list of your current medications, including over-the-counter supplements, to ensure there are no dangerous interactions.
Yes, Ammonium Carbonate is widely available in generic forms. It is often sold under generic names like 'Smelling Salts,' 'Ammonia Inhalants,' or simply by its chemical name. Because it is a simple chemical compound that has been in use for a long time, many manufacturers produce it. Generic versions are required to meet the same quality and potency standards as brand-name products. Your pharmacist can help you find a suitable generic version if your doctor has recommended its use.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Ammonium Carbonate)
In some individuals, the sympathetic nervous system response may be more pronounced:
These effects are more likely in sensitive individuals or those with underlying health conditions:
> Warning: Stop using Ammonium Carbonate and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious symptoms:
Ammonium Carbonate is not intended for long-term or chronic use. Chronic exposure to ammonia vapors can lead to:
No FDA black box warnings currently exist for Ammonium Carbonate. However, it is classified as a hazardous substance in concentrated forms, and its use in medical contexts is strictly regulated to prevent accidental poisoning or severe tissue damage.
Report any unusual symptoms or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider. If you suspect you are having a severe reaction, seek emergency care immediately.
For patients receiving Ammonium Carbonate as part of a diagnostic allergenic workup, the following monitoring is typically required:
Immediately after using Ammonium Carbonate for syncope, the patient may feel alert but should not drive or operate heavy machinery until they have been fully evaluated by a healthcare professional. The underlying cause of the fainting spell (e.g., cardiac arrhythmia, dehydration, neurological issue) poses a greater risk than the medication itself.
Alcohol can exacerbate the vasodilation that leads to fainting. While there is no direct chemical interaction between alcohol and Ammonium Carbonate, the use of alcohol may counteract the blood-pressure-raising effects of the medication and may cloud the clinical picture during an emergency.
There are no tapering requirements for Ammonium Carbonate, as it is not used for chronic maintenance therapy. There is no known withdrawal syndrome associated with its cessation. However, if you find yourself needing to use smelling salts frequently, this indicates an underlying medical problem that requires investigation by a doctor.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially respiratory and heart problems, with your healthcare provider before using Ammonium Carbonate.
For each major interaction, the mechanism typically involves either pharmacodynamic synergy (adding to the effect) or competition for receptor sites. The clinical consequence is usually an exaggerated cardiovascular response or a respiratory complication. Management involves avoiding the combination in high-risk patients and providing supportive care (e.g., beta-agonists for bronchospasm or vasodilators for hypertension) if a reaction occurs.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially those for your heart, lungs, or mood.
Conditions requiring careful risk-benefit analysis by a physician include:
Patients who are sensitive to other ammonium salts (such as ammonium chloride) or those who have had adverse reactions to other volatile inhalants (like amyl nitrite) should use Ammonium Carbonate with extreme caution, as cross-sensitivity in the form of respiratory hyper-reactivity is possible.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your respiratory and cardiovascular health, before prescribing or administering Ammonium Carbonate.
Ammonium Carbonate is not approved for use in infants. In older children and adolescents, it should be used with caution. The pediatric airway is smaller and more reactive than the adult airway, making children more susceptible to laryngospasm and bronchospasm. When used in allergenic extracts, pediatric patients must be monitored by a specialist equipped to handle pediatric respiratory emergencies.
Older adults are at an increased risk for adverse effects from Ammonium Carbonate:
Patients with a GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate) below 30 mL/min should be monitored if systemic absorption is suspected. While inhalation doses are minimal, the kidneys are responsible for excreting the urea produced from ammonium. In end-stage renal disease (ESRD), urea can accumulate, though the contribution from a single smelling salt dose is likely negligible.
In patients with Child-Pugh Class C hepatic impairment, the liver's ability to convert ammonia to urea is severely compromised. These patients are at risk for hyperammonemia, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and cause hepatic encephalopathy (confusion, tremors, coma). Ammonium Carbonate should be avoided in this population.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment to ensure that the use of Ammonium Carbonate does not exacerbate underlying conditions.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | High (via inhalation for local reflex; low systemic) |
| Protein Binding | Negligible |
| Half-life | < 30 minutes (as NH4+) |
| Tmax | Seconds (for reflex effect) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Urea Cycle) |
| Excretion | Renal (as Urea) |
Ammonium Carbonate is classified as a Respiratory Stimulant and a Reflex Vasomotor Stimulant. Within the EPC framework, it is categorized under Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC], reflecting its use in diagnostic immunology. It shares properties with other sympathomimetics due to its adrenergic agonist MoA.