The interaction of obidoxime (Toxogonin) with sarin was shown by different analytical methods. The UV spectrum of obidoxime at pH 7.4 yields two absorption maxima, lambda 1 = 284 nm and lambda 2 = 353 nm. The peak at lambda 2 = 353 nm is representative for the amount of zwitter-ionic obidoxime, i.e. the active form of obidoxime. By addition of sarin, lambda 1 shifts immediately to 278 nm and the intensity at lambda 2 decreases, thus indicating an interaction. TLC and 31P-NMR evidence shows that both mono-phosphonylated and diphosphonylated obidoximes are present. Decomposition of phosphonylated obidoxime in MOPS (3-[N-morpholino] propanesulfonic acid) buffered D2O at pH 7.4 occurs with t1/2 = 13.3 min at 24 degrees C. Decomposition of di-phosphonylated obidoxime is faster. It is suggested that decomposition of di-phosphonylated obidoxime occurs through the mono-phosphonylated form. Formation and decomposition of mono- and di-phosphonylated obidoxime is pH dependent. We conclude that obidoxime exerts a detoxifying effect by capturing free sarin molecules and thus increasing its polarity. Thereby the transition of sarin through the blood-brain barrier is restricted and its renal elimination facilitated.