The main mechanism of toxicity with crimidine is that it inhibits vitamin B6, which is used in the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids.

The serine residue, which is part of the acetylcholinesterase, acts a nucleophile and eventually replaces the C-Cl bond that is present in crimidine.

Unlike with acetylcholine, the resulting serine-crimidine bond does not hydrolyze, permanently deactivating the enzyme Crimidine is a fast acting convulsant, with an LD50 of 5 mg/kg.

Low dose, long-term exposure can lead to damage in the central nervous system, resulting in muscle stiffness, restlessness, and sensitivity to light and noise.

[4] Although crimidine is fast acting, it is also quickly secreted and can pass through the system in less than 24 hours.. intravenous vitamin B6 should be given as soon as poisoning is suspected