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Formothion is a systemic and contact organophosphate insecticide that is used sparingly on numerous small insects (EXTOXNET). It is one of the least toxic of all the Organophosphates (TOXMAP).

Contents

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

   Sean Foley

   Lead Author

   Sean Foley

   Managing Group

   Chemicals Group

   
   
   

   Just the facts Physical Information Name: Formothion Use: insecticide Source: synthetic chemistry Recommended daily intake: none Absorption: dermal, inhalation, ingestion Sensitive individuals: workers Toxicity/symptoms: Cholinesterase Inhibitor

   Chemical Structure

   
   

Chemical Description

Formothion is a systemic and contact [organophosphate insecticide]. At room temperature it is a pale yellow, odorless, viscous liquid and is miscible with alcohols, ether, chloroform, and others but is practically insoluble in water (TOXMAP).

Health Effects

Acute Toxicity and Symtoms
Formothion is a cholinesterase inhibitor but is not irritating to the skin.

• nausea or vomiting
• dizziness and weakness
• tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing (when inhaled)
• may cause blurred vision, muscle spasms, or loss of coordination
  

Environmental Effects

It is not highly toxic to birds or aquatic organisms, but it is toxic it to bees (EXTOXNET).

External Links

References

TOXMAP Chemical Page. Formothion. Accessed 6-19-07.

Extension Toxicology Network. Pesticide Information Profiles - Formothion. Accessed 6-19-07.