Mechanisms of toxicological interactions involving organophosphate insecticides.

Administration of apparently nontoxic doses of organophosphorus compounds can greatly alter the toxicity of other compounds. These might include other organophosphates, as well as other drug or nondrug xenobiotics. Mechanisms of toxicologic interactions are discussed. Emphasis is placed upon organophosphate inhibition of noncritical tissue esterases and alterations in the metabolism and toxicity of selected ester and amide containing xenobiotics.