Leukopenia-Induction Capacity of 6-MP Palladium Complex in the Chick ∗

Abstract

Summary

A series of experiments was conducted with 5-day-old White Leghorn (Hy-Line) cockerels. Six-mercaptopurine and a palladium complex of this compound were administered orally to 5-day-old chicks at equal dosage levels on a milligram basis for 10 days. At equal dosage levels, the leukopenia induction capacity of the two compounds was essentially the same at the end of the 10-day treatment period. The palladium complex was less toxic, as demonstrated by greater weight gain and lower mortality. At equimolar dosage levels, results were similar to those observed when evaluation of equal dosage levels was conducted.