What is the Draize test?
Q: What is the Draize test?
A: The Draize test is a test used to determine if a substance is toxic. It involves applying the substance to the skin or eye of an animal and then recording any effects after a given time period.
Q: Who developed the Draize test?
A: John H. Draize and Jacob M. Spines first used the test in 1944.
Q: What animals are typically used for this type of testing?
A: Small animals, such as rabbits, are often used for this type of testing.
Q: How long do animals need to be observed after a Draize test?
A: Animals are typically observed for up to 14 days after a Draize test.
Q: Are there any alternatives to using animals in these tests?
A: Yes, there are alternative tests that can replace the Draize Test for many applications such as using chicken eggs or Spanish slugs instead of animals.
Q: Is it possible for an animal to be reused in these types of tests?
A: Yes, if the product tested causes no permanent damage then an animal may be reused after a "wash out" period during which all traces of the tested product have dispersed from the site where it was applied.
Q: Why has use of this type of testing declined in recent years?
A: Use of this type of testing has declined due its controversial nature and because it is seen as cruel and unscientific due to differences between rabbit and human eyes, as well as subjective visual evaluations that must be made when conducting these tests.
