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Fenthion, formerly called DMTP, is a contact and systemic organothiophosphate insecticide used against many sucking and biting pests (EXTOXNET).

Contents

1. Chemical Description
2. Uses
3. Health Effects
4. Environmental Effects
5. Regulation
6. External Links
7. References
   
   Lead Editor

   Sean Foley

   Lead Author

   Sean Foley

   Managing Group

   Chemicals Group

   
   
   

   Just the facts Physical Information Name: Fenthion Use: insecticide Source: synthetic chemistry Recommended daily intake: Absorption: Sensitive individuals: Toxicity/symptoms: Regulatory facts: General facts: Environmental: Recommendations:

   Chemical Structure

   
   

Chemical Description

Pure fenthion is a colorless liquid while technical fenthion is a yellow or brown oily liquid with a weak garlic odor (EXTOXNET).

Uses

Fenthion was primarily an organophosphate insecticide, but was also an [avacide] and [acaricide]. It was used extensively preharvest on sugar cane, rice, field corn, beets, pome and stone fruits, citrus fruits, pistachio, cotton, olives, coffee, cocoa, vegetables, and vines. However, fenthion no longer has Food and Drug Administration approval because of an excess number of poisoning-related deaths (ATSDR). It is also applied to control pests on livestock (ATSDR).

Health Effects

The general population is not likely to be exposed to fenthion through contact but it has been detected on consumer foods and workers handling fenthion may come into contact with the insecticide. Symptoms of fenthion exposure are consistent with other Organophosphates and are the result of cholinesterase inhibition.

Acute Symptoms

Chronic Toxicity
Fenthion is not believed to be highly toxic chronically (ATSDR).

Environmental Effects

Fenthion is moderately persistent in soil with a typical half-life of 4-6 weeks. Because it binds strongly to soil, it is not likely to leach into groundwater (ATSDR).

Fenthion is highly toxic to birds, toxic to bees, and moderately toxic to aquatic organisms and fish (EXTOXNET).

Regulation

Fenthion is registered for use in most countries and is only banned in one country (Angola) (PAN).

External Links

• ABCbirds.org
  
  
• Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority - Fenthion FAQ
  

References

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). Fenthion. April, 2005. Accessed 6-20-07.

Extension Toxicology Network. Pesticide Information Profile - Fenthion. Accessed 6-20-07.

Pesticide Action Network Database. Fenthion. Accessed 6-20-07.