Acute Oral Toxicity of Guanidine Nitrate in Mice
Abstract
Guanidine nitrate is an intermediate product in the synthesis of nitroguanidine. Nitroguanidine is a primary component of US Army triple-base propellants and is now being produced in a Government-owned contractor-operated ammunition plant. The US Army Biomedical Research and Development evaluated the environmental and health hazards of military-unique propellants. The Division of Toxicology developed genetic and mammalian toxicity profile for nitroguanidine, related intermediates/by-products of its manufacture, and its environmental degradation products. The acute oral toxicity of guanidine nitrate was determined in male and female ICR mice by using the oral gavage single-dose method. The median lethal dose was 1105 mg/kg for male mice and and 1028 mg/kg for female mice. Clinical signs included behavioral changes, hunched posture, and changes in reflex activity. Behavioral signs observed were irritability, inactivity, disoriented condition, hyperactivity, jumping, tremors, twitching, head tilt, catalepsy, adn ataxia. Reflex activity affected by guanidine nitrate administration included depressed grasping and righting reflexes and changes in the startle reflex. The lethality and clinical signs were observed primarily during the first 24 hours after dosing. These results place guanidine nitrate in the slightly toxic category.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA197827
Entities
People
- Conrad R. Wheeler
- Don W. Korte Jr.
- Gerald F. Hiatt
- Larry D. Brown
Organizations
- Letterman Army Hospital