Observations on Dithiols and the Distribution of Lead in Rabbits

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Abstract
Summary: The influence of several dithiols on the acute distribution and excretion of lead salts has been studied in rabbits. Dimercaprol glucoside and 1:2-dimercaptopropionic acid were substantially more effective than dimercaprol in promoting the excretion of lead in the urine. 1:3-dimercaptopropanol and 1:4-dimercaptoerythritol were not more effective than dimercaprol. After dimercaprol glucoside the lead remaining in the body was distributed more uniformly than in the control animals. 5 After a tenfold increase in the dose of lead inequalities in the distribution were exaggerated. Dimercaprol and dimercaprol glucoside caused a bigger absolute increase in the urinary excretion of lead after this dose than after the smaller dose of lead. Relatively to the dose of lead, they were less effective. 6 The mechanism underlying these changes is discussed and a simple theory is put forward to account for them.