Cytochrome C as antidote in mice poisoned with the mushroom toxin alpha-amanitin.

The curative potencies of cytochrome c applied 8 hours after lethal doses of alpha-amanitin in mice are confirmed. In a comprehensive series of experiments, various dosage schedules were explored. Optimal effects with cure rates approaching 100% were obtained either with repeated doses of cytochrome c or by combining it with penicillin. Male mice are more sensitive to alpha-amanitin than female mice but it was established that the antidote is effective in both sexes. Substantial cure rates are seen even when the treatment after supralethal doses of alpha-amanitin is withheld for 12 hours after the poisoning.