N-Methylpyrrolidone (NMP) harms the developing fetus when tested in pregnant animals.
It is toxic to the reproductive system of male and female test animals. The reproductive
effects of NMP have not been studied in humans. Based on the animal tests, you should
treat NMP as a potential human reproductive hazard. Overexposure to NMP irritates the eyes,
skin, nose, and throat. It can also affect the central nervous system or brain causing symptoms
of drunkenness similar to the effects of drinking alcohol. NMP is easily absorbed through
the skin. It is widely used to replace methylene chloride and other chlorinated solvents that
harm the environment and health. HESIS revised this Health Hazard Advisory to inform
workers and employers that Cal/OSHA has adopted a Permissible Exposure Limit
for this substance.