Chronic toxicity of dextran sulphate in rabbits.

The chronic toxicities of two samples of low molecular dextran sulphate from different sources were studied in rabbits. Both samples caused retardation in weight gain, cachexia and general osteoporosis with spontaneous fractures and epiphyseolyses. Heparin-treated controls were used to exclude the possibility that the toxic effects could be connected with prolonged anticoagulant treatment. It is concluded that prolonged administration of dextran sulphate causes systemic toxic effects which are not related to its anticoagulant activity.