Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine is a chemical compound also called RDX, which stands for Royal Demolition Explosive. It is also known as cyclonite or hexogen. The chemical name for RDX is 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine and it is a very explosive white powder that creates fumes when it is burned with other substances. As such, it is used as an explosive and it is also used in combination with other ingredients in explosives. RDX is a synthetic product that does not occur naturally in the environment. (2)
belongs to the class of organic compounds known as 1,3,5-triazinanes. These are triazinanes having three nitrogen ring atoms at the 1-, 3-, and 5- positions.
RDX can get into the lungs after breathing in the fumes of burning RDX or breathing in the dust from powdered RDX. It can also enter the body after ingestion of contaminated water. It may also pass through the skin into the bloodstream or enter through cuts or breaks in the skin. It also blocks electron transport. (3, 2)
Metabolism
There are no studies available regarding RDX metabolites in humans following inhalation, oral, or dermal exposure. Some studies reported that 4-nitro-2,4-diazabutanal, and nitrite ions are produced through biotransformation of RDX by cytochrome P450. The limited toxicological data show that RDX is absorbed through the gastrointestinal system, lungs, and skin, and is distributed to the cerebrospinal fluid, plasma, urine, and feces. RDX will leaves the body in the breath and urine within a few days. (2, 1)
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).
Uses/Sources
RDX is used as an explosive and is also used in combination with other ingredients in explosives. Exposure may occur by breathing dust containing RDX, contact with the skin, or drinking contaminated water. (2)
RDX can cause seizures. Inhalation exposure to RDX can lead to gastrointestinal, hematological, hepatic, and renal effects. (2)
Symptoms
Symptoms of RDX exposure include epileptiform seizures, insomnia, restlessness, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and irritability. Temporary postconvulsive amnesia, malaise, fatigue, and asthenia can follow the seizures. (4)
Treatment
Following oral exposure, symptomatic patients should be given adequate respiratory support during seizures. Monitor liver and renal function tests and urinalysis in patients with significant exposure. Following inhalation exposure, move patient to fresh air. Monitor for respiratory distress. If cough or difficulty breathing develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, bronchitis, or pneumonitis. Administer oxygen and assist ventilation as required. Treat bronchospasm with inhaled beta2 agonist and oral or parenteral corticosteroids. Following eye exposure, irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of room temperature water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, the patient should be seen in a health care facility. Following dermal exposure, remove contaminated clothing and wash exposed area thoroughly with soap and water. A physician may need to examine the area if irritation or pain persists. (5)
