What are capsaicinoids and how do they affect the body when sprayed?

• A. Capsaicinoids block TRPV1 receptors causing numbness.
• B. Capsaicinoids irritate TRPV1 receptors on eyes, skin, and mucous membranes, causing burning, tearing, coughing, and breathing difficulty.
• C. Capsaicinoids neutralize mucous membranes to reduce tearing.
• D. Capsaicinoids produce numbness only.

Answer: (B)

Capsaicinoids are irritant compounds in OC spray that directly activate pain-sensing receptors called TRPV1 on sensory nerves in the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes. When sprayed, these compounds bind to TRPV1 and open the channel, causing a rapid influx of calcium and sodium. This triggers nerve signals that you perceive as burning and pain, leading to reflex tearing, coughing, and, if inhaled, breathing difficulty. The effect is due to irritation and inflammation of the mucous membranes, not numbness or neutralization. They don’t block TRPV1 or produce numbness; instead they provoke a strong nociceptive response that is typically temporary as the irritant clears.