TSAR : Tracking System for Alternative test methods Review, Validation and Approval in the Context of EU Regulations on Chemicals

Acute Systemic Toxicity
Acute Inhalation Toxicity Method
3 Rs Category :  Refinement/Reduction
Type of Method :  In vivo
Comment :  More flexible, reduces animal usage.
It includes two study types:
a Traditional LC50 protocol and a Concentration x Time (C x t) protocol.
It can provide a concentration-response relationship ranging from nonlethal to lethal outcomes for deriving a median lethal concentration (LC50), non-lethal threshold concentration (e.g. LC01), and slope, and identifying possible sex susceptibility.
The C x t protocol should be used when there is a specific regulatory or scientific need that calls for the testing of animals over multiple time durations, such as for purposes of emergency response planning (e.g. deriving Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGL), Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPG), or Acute Exposure Threshold Levels (AETL) values), or for land-use planning.
Status of adoption in EU :  Foreseen for 3rd adaptation to technical progress (ATP) of Reg 440/2008.
Beginning of 2010.
Stage 3.
Corresponding OECD TG :  TG 403.
Update adopted 7 September 2009.
Status of adoption by OECD :  OECD