1-6

[Previous] [Next]

1-6. INCAPACITATING AGENTS

Incapacitating agents are designed to reduce military effectiveness by interfering with the central nervous system without being fatal. Although the agents themselves are not deadly except in very high concentrations, the agents may cause the casualty to ignore dangers and accidentally injure himself and fellow soldiers. The effects of incapacitating agents are temporary, but may last for hours to days.

a. Types of Incapacitating Agents. Incapacitating agents include central nervous system depressants, such as 3-quinuclidinyl benzilate [incapacitating agent] (BZ) and cannabinols, and central nervous system stimulants such as d-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).

b. Methods of Dissemination. Incapacitating agents are most likely to be dispersed by smoke-producing munitions or aerosols.

c. Characteristics of Incapacitating Agents. Incapacitating agents may not have identifying characteristics.

d. Absorption of Incapacitating Agents. Incapacitating agents normally enter the body through the respiratory tract, but can also enter through the skin. The casualty may not show signs and symptoms of exposure for several hours (up to 36 hours if absorbed through the skin) after exposure.

e. Physiological Effects

(1) Central nervous system depressants interfere with the transmission of information by the nerves. Three-quinuclidinyl benzilate [incapacitating agent] disturbs the brain's higher functions of memory, problem solving, and comprehension. Cannabinols interferes with the casualty's motivation rather than his ability to think.

 

(2) Central nervous system stimulants cause excessive nerve activity by facilitating transmission of nerve impulses and flood the brain with so much information; the casualty cannot concentrate and does not act in a decisive manner.

 

[Previous] [Next]