The pits (kernels) of certain fruits contain amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside. Ingestion of the glycoside may be followed by symptoms of cyanide poisoning.
Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside contained in the fruit pits. When cleaved it releases hydrogen cyanide.
Fruits involved (members of the genus Prunus):
(1) apricots
(2) peaches
(3) cherries
(4) almonds
(5) plums
Oils prepared from the pits of these fruits is generically termed oil of bitter almond. The oil prepared commercially is treated to remove cyanide and is termed "free from prussic acid" (FFPA).
Laetrile was an anticancer drug prepared from apricot pits that was an ineffective fad (although if enough was taken it could be said that the patient did not die of the cancer).
Clinical findings are those of cyanide poisoning:
(1) vomiting
(2) weakness or paralysis
(3) ataxia
(4) dyspnea and cyanosis
(5) diaphoresis
(6) lightheadedness and headache
(7) abdominal pain
(8) convulsions
(9) disorientation
(10) stupor or coma
(11) cardiovascular collapse
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