Chemical Agents Encountered in Protests.

The most common chemicals used in riot control agents are chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, chloroacetophenone, dibenz[b,f]-[1,4]-oxazepine, and oleoresin capsicum. They cause ocular, respiratory, and dermal effects usually within seconds to minutes of exposure, but delayed effects have been reported. In addition, the canisters containing these chemicals can cause traumatic injuries when launched as projectiles. Although most effects are mild, some may be serious, especially in those with preexisting respiratory disease. Treatment consists of removing the patient from the source of exposure, removing contaminated clothes, and copiously irrigating the affected areas with water.