how does pepper spray work?

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WildFire 18% Pepper Spray - The Best on the Market Today

The active ingredient in pepper spray is oleoresin capsicum, OC for short. The OC is derived from Cayenne peppers. These are some of the hottest peppers in the world. While old-fashioned MACE or tear gas products are merely irritants, pepper spray OC is an inflammatory agent. Contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, throat, and lungs) causes immediate dilation of the capillaries. This can result in temporary blindness and instant inflammation of the breathing tube tissues. This causes a systematic shutdown of all but life support breathing. OC also creates an intense burning sensation on the surface of the skin. The effects last from 15 to 60 minutes. However, OC will cause no lasting after effects. Because OC is an inflammatory agent, and not an irritant, it is highly-effective on those who feel no pain, such as psychotics and those under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

Keep in mind that the new Mace brand pepper spray products are not the same as the old Mace spray products.