Observations on Dithiols and the Distribution of Lead in Rabbits

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.