NCJ Number
184781
Journal
Law Enforcement Trainer Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2000 Pages: 18-42
Editor(s)
Kat Kelley
Date Published
2000
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Controversy is still associated with the use of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray both in the field and in the training environment.
Abstract
The author researched the medical and toxicological literature and enlisted the help of a university to identify research on OC. He found a great deal of research on the active ingredient capsaicin and its effects on the nerves in fetal mice and on human cough patterns, but found only minimal research on the effects of capsaicin on the living cornea of humans. To obtain information on the field use of OC spray and its effects on the human eye, the author contacted the University of Washington's medical school where ophthalmologists studied the effects of OC spray on the human cornea. The study involved about 45 participants who were evaluated before and after exposure to OC spray on visual acuity and corneal sensitivity. Corneal sensitivity was dramatically reduced at 10 minutes post-exposure and was improved after 1 hour. OC spray induced marked corneal irritation and conjunctival irritation but with no apparent long-term effects.