2018/01/01 by Peter R. Chai, Bryan D. Hayes, Timothy B. Erickson +1 · 3 citations
Agricultural and Biological Sciences · Environmental Science · #Pesticide Exposure and Toxicity #Animal Ecology and Behavior Studies #Insect and Pesticide Research
paper · pdf · doi:10.1080/24734306.2018.1475151
openalex publication_date 2018/01/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/01
The Novichok, or “newcomer” class of nerve agents are lesser characterized, weaponized organophosphate agents. The use of known Novichok agents in warfare is banned under the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1997. Novichok agents are considered more potent than VX gas and can be applied in unitary and binary forms. Like other nerve agents, Novichok agents irreversibly bind acetylcholinesterase and produce a cholinergic toxidrome. Uniquely, these agents are thought to also target neurons in the peripheral nervous system. Delayed treatment or massive exposure may therefore cause a debilitating neuropathy. The recent 2018 assassination attempt of Russian dissident Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in the United Kingdom highlights the importance of recognizing the potential lethal effects of these nerve agents. Treatment of Novichok agent poisoning is similar to management of other nerve agents. Given increasing worldwide incidents attributed to chemical weapons such as Novichok agents, clinicians should know how to rapidly recognize symptoms of acute poisoning and administer life-saving antidotal therapy, when indicated.