CW Agent Factsheet - Agent-15

Alternative codes and names

Agent-15 belongs to the glycollates, a large group of chemicals which also includes the chemical warfare agent BZ.

The chemicals block cholinergic nerve transmission in the central and peripheral nervous system. The main effects of exposure to Agent-15 are believed to be: dilated pupils, flushed faces, dry mouth, rapid heart beat (tachycardia), increase in skin and body temperature, weakness, dizziness, disorientation, visual hallucinations, confusions, loss of time sense, loss of coordination and stupor.

Two precursors to BZ and related agents are listed both in Schedule 2B of the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Australia Group export control list: 3-Quinuclidinol and Benzilic acid.

Three other precursors to BZ and related agents do not appear in any of the Schedules of the Chemical Weapons Convention, but are listed in the Australia Group export control list: 3-Hydroxy-1-methylpiperidine; Methylbenzilate and 3-Quinuclidone.

Little information is publicly known about Agent-15, except that it is closely related to BZ. The understanding of its physiological effects is based on studies with the latter agent.

The existence of Agent-15 in Iraq's arsenals was revealed by the British Secretary of State George Robertson in a statement to the House of Commons on 9 February 1998. According to the statement, Iraq may have possessed large quantities of the agent since the 1980s. A document found by the UN Special Commission on Iraq (UNSCOM) in August 1995 contained a brief reference to Agent-15 and subsequent assessment of relevant scientific and other background material indicated the size of the stockpile.