The chemical controlling nerve signals works like the body’s “off switch” for muscles.

Strychnine prevents the proper operation of the chemical that controls nerve signals to the muscles.The extent of poisoning caused by strychnine depends on the amount and route of strychnine exposure and the person’s condition of health at the time of the exposure.Poisoning has been reported from strychnine given intravenously and through the nose.Strychnine could be smoked or snorted as a component of street drugs.For example, a person could be poisoned by inhaling strychnine powder that has been released in the air. It is also possible to absorb strychnine through the membranes in the nose, eyes, or mouth.Following contamination of food with strychnine, you could be exposed by eating the contaminated food.Following release of strychnine into water, you could be exposed by drinking contaminated water.

Uncommonly, strychnine is found mixed with “street” drugs such as LSD, heroin, and cocaine.Today, strychnine is used primarily as a pesticide, particularly to kill rats.In the past, strychnine was available in a pill form and was used to treat many human ailments.This plant is found in southern Asia (India, Sri Lanka, and East Indies) and Australia. The primary natural source of strychnine is the plant Strychnos nux-vomica.Where strychnine is found and how it is used Strychnine poisoning can cause extremely serious adverse health effects, including death.

Strychnine is a strong poison only a small amount is needed to produce severe effects in people.

Strychnine is a white, odorless, bitter crystalline powder that can be taken by mouth, inhaled (breathed in), or mixed in a solution and given intravenously (injected directly into a vein).

Antidote for rat poison