A computer program for estimating LD50 and its confidence limits using modified Behrens-Reed-Muench cumulant method.

Abstract

A FORTRAN IV program is developed for simple and quick estimation of LD50 and its confidence intervals from quantal dose-response data. The algorithm is based on a modification of the Behrens-Reed-Muench cumulant method. Under ideal experimental design, the method produces results comparable to the ones by statistically more accurate maximum likelihood method using the Logit or the Probit transformation. The procedure, as implemented, can also be easily performed on a small hand-held calculator.