Poison/toxic agents derivatives

The data shown in Table 2 illustrate the general paucity of comparative toxicity data within an isosteric series of chemicals. In this Table a variety of toxic end-points observed for benzene and naphthalene have been compared with those of their simple heterocyclic analogues, and it is clear that it is almost impossible to derive chemical structure-biological activity relationships from the published literature for even such a simple series of compounds. Even basic estimates of mammalian toxicity such as LD50 values cannot be accurately compared due either to the absence of relevant data or the noncomparability of those available. Thus in a field where there are little comparative data on the relative toxicity to mammals of pyrrole, thiophene and furan for example, it is difficult to relate chemical structure to biological activity in historical heterocyclic poisons such as strychnine (3) and hemlock [active agent coniine (4)]. 

Penicillamine (Cuprimine), a derivative of penicillin, is officially classified as a chelating agent that is often used in the treatment of heavy metal intoxication (e.g., lead poisoning). In addition, this drug has been used in patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis, and seems to be as effective as other DMARDs such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and gold therapy.68 98 Penicillamine, however, tends to be substantially more toxic than other DMARDs, and is therefore used rarely in the treatment of specific patients with rheumatoid arthritis.68... 

Arsine, the most toxic form of arsenic, exhibits some characteristics that may make it useful as a chemical warfare (CW) agent. Arsine is a colorless, odorless, nonirritating gas and is 2.5 times denser than air (Henriksson et al, 1996 Pullen-James and Woods, 2006 Thomas and Young, 2001). At concentrations above 0.5 ppm, a garlic-like odor may be noted, but arsine is toxic at much lower concentrations. Acute arsine poisoning due to inhalation of arsine gas (AsHs) is rare but has no known antidote. It is the most acutely toxic form of arsenic causing rapid and severe hemolysis immediately on exposure. The mechanisms of hemolysis are not completely understood. Arsine has a short half-life (27-96 h) and is converted to various arsenic derivatives. Although it... 

Agricultural pesticides were found to be effective insect resist agents when applied in emulsion form to wool dyebaths. Dieldrin (Fig. 16.2a), one of the original nerve poisons, is also highly toxic to mammals and aquatic life and its use has been banned in most countries. Products based on permethrin (Fig. 16.2b), a synthetic pyrethroid, are very effective against moth larvae, but have less effect on Anthrenus beetles. To overcome this disadvantage, combination products of permethrin and hexahydropyrimidine derivatives (Fig. 16.2c) have been introduced. 

Mercury and its compounds are highly toxic. Air saturated with mercury vapor contains about 15 mg Hg per in In badly ventilated laboratories the amounts of Hg vapor derived from spilt mercury In the air may suffice to induce chronic mercury poisoning. The inhaled mercuiy is only very slowly excreted via the urine. I )imethylniercury (CHj)2Hg is extremely toxic and can cause irreversible damage to the central nervous system. Ozone is a strong oxidising agent and very toxic. 

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