Studies on the Effect of Atabrine on Vitamin a Metabolism

Abstract

Atabrine added to a diet containing 50% skim milk powder at a level of 800 mg per kilogram of ration does not impair the utilization of food by the rat, if adequate supplements of vitamin A are also given. Prolonged treatment with atabrine has an adverse effect on the capacity of the liver to store vitamin A. Even toxic levels of atabrine which decrease the ability of the liver to store vitamin A do not affect the requirement for the vitamin. The absorption rate of carotene and of vitamin A is decreased by prolonged administration of atabrine.