Enhanced Fecal Excretion of Mirex in Rhesus Monkeys by 5% Mineral Oil in the Diet

Abstract

The effect of two dietary treatments upon fecal excretion of Mirex was studied in rhesus monkeys dosed with ¹⁴C-Mirex. Administration of 5% mineral oil in the diet during the first month following dosing resulted in about 50% increase in fecal excretion of Mirex. The same treatment repeated 6 months after dosing triggered about a 400% increase in fecal excretion of Mirex. Subsequent dietary administration of cholestyramine resulted in a comparably small effect on fecal excretion of Mirex. The considerable difference in the ability of mineral oil to induce the effect during the first and sixth month after dosage is likely to be due to compartmental redistribution of Mirex. Mineral oil treatment appears to effect primarily the “very deep” compartment (fatty tissues) by enhancing intestinal elimination of Mirex.