Phthalates and Neurological Disorders: From Exposure to Preventive Interventions

TLDR: This chapter discussed the pharmacokinetics of phthalates in association with neurodevelopment disorder in humans, which may cause severe asthma, affect motor neurons and cause many neurological disorders.

Abstract: Phthalates are organic compounds that are used in cosmetics, food packaging industry, toys and paints, and, most commonly, as plasticizers. Phthalates are classified as low and high categories according to their molecular weight. Human health issues, especially neurodevelopmental problems, are significant consequences of exposure to phthalates. Both low- and high-molecular weight phthalates like MBP (monobutyl phthalate) and DEHP (di-ethylhexyl phthalate) metabolites are associated with different cognitive and behavioral issues. It may cause severe asthma, affect motor neurons and cause many neurological disorders. Prenatal phthalate exposure is related to behavioral problems in children. In this chapter, we have discussed the pharmacokinetics of phthalates in association with neurodevelopment disorder in humans. Due to its potentially harmful nature, this ubiquitous environmental contaminant has gained considerable attention. The most common plasticizer used globally was phthalate acid esters (PAE), also known as phthalate. Later on, many organizations have imposed restrictions on phthalate use in children’s toys or products. However, products used by adults still contain phthalates, such as low-molecular weight phthalates, whereas DEP, DnBP and DiBP phthalates are used in medications, solvents and cosmetics.