NCJ Number
190896
Date Published
1999
Length
34 pages
Annotation
This report assesses the potential noncancer and cancer effects of chemical agent sarin (GB).
Abstract
Sarin (GB) is a colorless liquid with a very volatile vapor pressure. Evaporation is the primary mechanism for the loss of GB from soil. The effects of the organophosphate nerve agents can be characterized as being muscarinic, nicotinic, or central nervous system-related. In addition to being found in the nervous system, it also occurs in the blood where it is bound to the surface of red blood cells. Nerve agents are acutely toxic by all routes of exposure. Initial symptoms of acute poisoning are fatigue, headache, mild vertigo, weakness, and loss of concentration. Moderate exposures result in miosis and excessive sweating, tearing, and salivation. In addition to the immediate toxicity of the nerve agents, there is concern that exposures may lead to chronic neurological effects similar to those reported for some organophosphate insecticides. There was limited information concerning the effects of GB following prolonged exposure to low concentrations. No data were available to evaluate the potential reproductive and developmental effects of GB in humans; however, studies in laboratory animals indicated that such effects were not likely even at dose levels that are maternally toxic. The potential carcinogenicity of GB could not be determined; however, limited data from animal inhalation studies suggested that agent GB was not carcinogenic. 8 tables and 84 references