ALLOXAN DIABETES IN THE HAMSTER: DOSAGE AND BLOOD SUGAR CURVES1

Abstract

In hamsters fasted 48 hours, 45-50 mg/kg of alloxan, given intravenously by orbital sinus, produces persistent hyperglycemia. For fed animals, 60-70 mg/kg is required. Blood sugar levels reached 175 mg% for the former and 245 mg% for the latter in 2-4 hours, fell to 55 and 65 mg%, respectively in 6-8 hours, rose again to 255 and 310 mg% after 48 hours and remained between 250 and 300 mg% for the next 2 days. Lethal doses produce similar changes during the first 24-36 hours, with a survival period of 2 to 5 days.