THERAPY OF ACUTE UDMH INTOXICATION

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Abstract
The potentially toxic agent, 1,1-dimethylhydra zine (UDMH), has become very important from a medical viewpoint because of its large-scale use as a missile propellant. Pharmacological studies have revealed that the compound is primarily a central nervous system irritant, and latently causes cardiovascular collapse and ensuing irreversible shock. Pyridoxine therapy constitutes the first successful approach to specific treatment which prevents convulsions and death in all species tested. The ED50 (effective dose) of two vitamin B6 congeners, pyridoxine hydrochloride and pyridoxamine dihydrochloride, was determined in mice, rats, dogs, and monkeys. The only manifestation which was not abolished by this therapy in dogs and monkeys was vomiting. The data presented in this paper are the basis for the suggested emergency treatment of severely exposed personnel, consising of the injection of 25 mg/kg pyridox ine hydrochloride. The toxicity of pyridoxine, including overall therapeutic and clinical con siderations with routes of administration, dosage regimens, and other supportive measures, is discussed.

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