Abstract: Disclosed herein are formulations of nitrite, nitrite salt, or nitrite- or nitric oxide-producing compounds suitable for aerosolization and use of such formulations for aerosol administration of nitrite, nitrite salt, or nitrite- or nitric oxide-donating compounds for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, intra-nasal or pulmonary bacterial infections, or to treat or prevent ischemic reperfusion injury of the heart, brain and organs involved in transplantation. In particular, inhaled nitrite, nitrite salt, or nitrite- or nitric oxide-donating compound specifically formulated and delivered to the respiratory tract for the indications is described. Compositions include all formulations, kits, and device combinations described herein. Methods include inhalation procedures and manufacturing processes for production and use of the compositions described.