Chemistry and Chemical Disasters. A toxic agent or substance that inhibits, damages or destroys the tissues of the nervous system, especially neurons, the conducting cells of your body's central nervous system. This is an example of a cytotoxin. Additional Info: Neurotoxic effects can include behavior changes, seizures, as well as wide range of effects, including death. See: The links under Further Reading for specifics. One unfortunately common neurotoxin is the linear chain alkane, n-hexane, a commonly used solvent and degreaser. OSHA has issued an Occupational Safety and Health Guideline for n-Hexane. OSHA's permissible exposure limit of 500 ppmfor this material is believed by some experts to be at least an order of magnitude too high to adequately protect workers. The other (branched) isomers of n-hexane do not exhibit neurotoxicity, so consider switching one of those or heptane to avoid workplace exposure. MSDS Relevance: MSDS's will normally warn the reader of neurotoxic dangers. Both acute andchronic (long and short-term) exposure to certain organic chemicals can cause a variety of health problems including narcosis, anesthesia, CNS (central nervous system) depression, respiratory arrest, unconsciousness, coma, and death. See: The first link below for more information. Treat neurotoxins with great respect. The potential for long-lasting or permanent effects from exposure means you should avoid the use of neurotoxins whenever possible. If you must use them, use proper controls to minimize the number of exposed workers (such as fume hoods) as well as personal protective equipmentsuch as respirators, gloves etc. See also: Cytotoxin, Poison, Systemic, Toxic