Name: Laura Alexander
Status: Other
Age: N/A
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: N/A
Question:
I am part of a research group studying different chemicals and their effects
on animals and, plants, and humans. Our chemical is dinitrophenol
(C14 H2 0 N2 O5). My research group and I would like to know if there are any
serious side effects to exposure to this chemical, and if so, what are they?
Also, is this a well-known chemical and have there been any cases of it being
exposed to harmfully or exposed to humans, plants or animals?
Replies:
Here are some research reports to look for in your library, or contact the
National Technical information Service or Superintendent of Documents at the
US Government Printing Office:
1990 "Toxicological Profile for Phenol" by Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry
1986 "Summary Review of the Health Effects of Phenol" by US
Environmental Protection Agency
1980 "Bioassay of Phenol for Possible Carcinogenicity" by National
Institutes of Health Carcinogenesis Testing Program
1976 "Occupational Exposure to Phenol: Criteria for a Recommended
Standard" by National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.
Mortis
Update -- 2002
I recently read a question asked about Dinitrophenol
(DNP) on your web site. I am a physician and I have recently seen a
number of events in which teenagers have taken DNP to loose weight and
to build muscle. Consequently, a number of them have died. DNP is a
strong uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation for which there is not
immediate treatment. These children burn up from the inside out. Please
be sure your young readers are aware of these dangers. Thank you for
your assistance in this matter. Lisa D. M.D.
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