Is N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone safe?

N-Methylpyrrolidone, also known as NMP or 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, is a solvent used in a range of products. The average consumer is most likely to encounter it in paint strippers, even though safer alternatives exist. NMP has been closely linked to developmental impacts including miscarriages.

NMP is  banned.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes NMP as a developmental toxicant. In 2017, EPA proposed to ban this chemical’s use in paint stripping but then shelved the proposal under pressure from industry and in 2021 officially withdrew the proposal. We’re calling on retailers to take action and stop selling paint strippers containing NMP. 

In the final revised risk determination, EPA determined that NMP presents an unreasonable risk of injury to human health under its conditions of use.

Health Harard

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 also dissolves the natural protective oils on your skin and can cause dermatitis (dry, rough, red, or cracked skin).  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.