Removal of the victim from the environment and decontamination should occur first.
The first step in treatment is to open the airway, if it is not already open. Second, treatment should focus on reducing the fluid in the alveoli (cells in lung). Providing oxygen to the alveoli is vital.
Bronchodilators, such as alupent and albuterol, given in an updraft will provide some dilation of the airways.
Further dilation of airways may be accomplished by brethine or epinephrine subcutaneously.
For lower airway injury that results in pulmonary edema positive pressure ventilations using a positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) valve may be indicated.
Corticosteroids given intravenously may be particularly helpful for the treatment of phosgene.
