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Glyphosate poisoning.

Sally M Bradberry1, Alex T Proudfoot, J Allister Vale

  • 1National Poisons Information Service (Birmingham Centre) and West Midlands Poisons Unit, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK.

Toxicological Reviews
|May 3, 2005
PubMed
Summary
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Glyphosate herbicide formulations, containing surfactants like POEA, can cause severe poisoning, especially when concentrated amounts are ingested. Toxicity is linked to the mixture, not just glyphosate alone, with POEA potentially increasing risks.

Area of Science:

  • Agricultural Science
  • Toxicology
  • Environmental Health

Background:

  • Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide, with increasing application due to genetically modified glyphosate-tolerant crops.
  • Commercial glyphosate formulations are complex mixtures, typically containing glyphosate salts, surfactants (e.g., polyoxyethyleneamine - POEA), and other additives.
  • The toxicity of glyphosate formulations is not solely attributable to glyphosate but also to its various salts and co-formulants, particularly surfactants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the toxicological profile of glyphosate formulations, distinguishing the contributions of glyphosate and its co-formulants.
  • To assess the clinical manifestations and prognosis associated with acute glyphosate formulation poisoning.
  • To review the management strategies for various exposure routes.

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Main Methods:

  • Review of experimental studies on glyphosate and its formulations, focusing on the role of surfactants like POEA.
  • Analysis of case reports and clinical data from human poisonings with glyphosate-based herbicides.
  • Evaluation of dose-response relationships and factors influencing toxicity, such as formulation concentration and patient age.

Main Results:

  • Experimental data suggest that surfactants, such as POEA, may contribute significantly to the toxicity of glyphosate formulations, potentially exceeding the toxicity of glyphosate alone.
  • Human poisonings, particularly from concentrated formulations like Roundup (41% glyphosate, 15% POEA), are associated with significant gastrointestinal, renal, hepatic, and respiratory complications.
  • Ingestion of large quantities (>85 mL) of concentrated formulations correlates with severe systemic effects and increased mortality risk; advanced age is a negative prognostic factor.
  • Dermal exposure can cause irritation, while inhalation and eye exposure lead to milder, transient symptoms.

Conclusions:

  • The toxicity of glyphosate formulations is complex and multifactorial, involving interactions between glyphosate, its salts, and surfactants.
  • Surfactants, especially POEA, appear to play a crucial role in the acute toxicity of these formulations.
  • Prompt symptomatic and supportive management is essential for patients with glyphosate formulation poisoning, with decontamination being key for dermal exposure.