Nerve agents can be treated with atropine and pralidoxime chloride. Commonly used in the military and sometimes carried on ambulances are the Mark I kit and the DuoDote. The Mark I kit contains 3 sets of 2 autoinjectors. The Duodote contains 3 sets of 1 autoinjector (the DuoDote autoinjector combined both medications into one syringe.

Nerve agent kits are provided for the rescuers of chemical attacks (which could include ambulance personnel). Their use would be indicated by exposure to nerve agents. Symptoms of nerve agent poisoning include:

• Salivation
• Lacrimation
• Urination
• Defecation
• Gastrointestinal distress
• Emesis

Use of nerve agent antidote kits would not be indicated for minor symptoms like a runny nose or tearing. Side effects of atropine are:

• Increased heart rate
• Dried secretions
• Decreased gastric upset
• Dilated pupils

Side of effects of pralidoxime (2-PAM) include:

• Muscle twitching
• Difficulty breathing