Mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP)

Elevated Mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP) in urine indicates recent exposure to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), one of the most widely used industrial plasticizers. DEHP is commonly found in plastics, food packaging, medical devices, flooring, toys, and personal care products. MEHHP is one of the main metabolites formed when the body processes DEHP, so higher levels mean your body is actively breaking down and excreting this chemical.

Because DEHP is considered an endocrine-disrupting compound, elevated MEHHP may signal a higher risk of health effects such as hormone disruption, reproductive issues, metabolic changes, liver or kidney stress, and developmental concerns (especially during pregnancy or childhood). Elevated levels reflect a greater toxic burden from phthalates, often due to regular contact with plastic materials, contaminated food or water, or certain consumer products.

Key point: Elevated MEHHP means your body has had significant recent phthalate exposure, and reducing contact with plastics and chemical-containing products can help lower levels and support long-term health.

Mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP) is a metabolite of mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), which is part of the common environmental toxins known as phthalates. Phthalates, often referred to as plasticizers, are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and durable. They are widely used in various products, including:

• Cosmetics
• Adhesives
• Detergents
• Lubricating oils
• Automotive plastics
• Plastic clothing

People are exposed to phthalates through several routes:

• Ingestion: Eating or drinking foods and beverages contaminated with phthalates.
• Inhalation: Breathing in air that contains phthalate vapors or dust, which can irritate the nose and throat, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, headaches, dizziness, and nausea.