EA-3443

EA-3443 is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of anticholinergic drugs. It is a potent and long-lasting antimuscarinic agent, which was developed by the United States Army Chemical Corps during the 1950s as part of their research into chemical warfare agents.

History

EA-3443 was one of a series of compounds developed by the United States Army Chemical Corps in the 1950s and 1960s. The aim of this research was to develop potent anticholinergic agents for use in chemical warfare. EA-3443 was found to be one of the most potent compounds in this series, with a long duration of action and a high degree of selectivity for the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor.

Pharmacology

EA-3443 acts as an antagonist at the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor, blocking the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This results in a range of effects, including dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, and constipation. In high doses, EA-3443 can cause severe delirium and hallucinations.

Use in Chemical Warfare

The primary intended use of EA-3443 was as a chemical warfare agent. It was designed to be dispersed as an aerosol, causing incapacitation in those exposed to it. The long duration of action of EA-3443 made it particularly suited to this role, as it could potentially incapacitate enemy troops for an extended period.

Safety and Toxicity

Like other anticholinergic drugs, EA-3443 has a range of side effects, some of which can be severe. These include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation, and in high doses, severe delirium and hallucinations. The long duration of action of EA-3443 also means that these effects can last for an extended period.

See Also

• Chemical warfare
• Anticholinergic
• United States Army Chemical Corps