Abstract
Hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD) is a by-product of certain processes associated with the chlorination of hydrocarbons. Very small amounts of HCBD may also be produced in chlorine cells. This study evaluated the effects of HCBD on reproduction in rats. Groups of male and female adult rats were fed diets containing HCBD at dose levels of 0, 0.2, 2.0, or 20 mg/kg/day for 90 days prior to mating, 15 days during mating, and subsequently throughout gestation and lactation. Signs of toxicity among the adult rats were observed at the two higher dose levels and included decreased weight gain and food consumption as well as alterations in kidney structure. There was no effect on pregnancy or neonatal survival and development. The body weight of neonates at the time of weaning, 21 days of age, was slightly but significantly less than that of control litters. This effect was found only at the high dose level. No toxic effects were observed among the adults at a dose level of 0.2 mg/kg/day or among the neonates at dose levels of 0.2 or 2.0 mg/kg/day.
Published Version
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