Examination of few animals in detail rather than many for statistical purposes. Limit tests could be used, provided animals in distress are killed humanely, if this would not interfere with the objectives. For classification of substances and preparations, a fixed-dose procedure targeted to acute signs could replace the current practice of LD 50 determination. Acute toxicity profiles are important. Classical LD 50 test is seldom necessary.
Protocols exist for estimating lethal dose.
Regulations should not specify minimum number animals. Procedures for the selection of a toxicity class should be encouraged. Acute toxicity data may be unnecessary for the protection of human health from some products. Predictions based on alternatives as an aid to dose selection should be encouraged. Inc. Publishers, New York.