How does death by SN work?

[MiMif]

The title

 

[hippiedeath]

I believe it keeps the cells in the body from absorbing oxygen, thus inducing death.

 

[Rev346]

From webmd-High levels of it can lower the ability of your red blood cells to move oxygen. Doctors refer to this harmful condition as methemoglobinemia. This can affect your ability to breathe, which can cause you to collapse. Very high levels of sodium nitrite can kill you.

There are also several medical journal articles available for free online regarding SN that go into further details on the specific chemistry if you're interested.