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Overview

Tefluthrin is a synthetic pyrethroid pesticide that was fist introduced in 1986 and it is synthesized from the flower heads of chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium which contain the natural Pyrethroids esters of chrysanthemumic acid (R1 = CH ₃) or pyrethric acid (R1 = H ₃ O ₂ C) (INCHEM). It currently has no reported use in the United States (PAN).

Chemical Description

It is a colorless solid at room temperature with a low solubility in water and a low flammability (INTOX).

Uses

Tefluthrin is still legal to be used, though no use has been recorded in the past few years. It was used to control a wide range of soil pests in crops such as maize, sugar beet, corn, grains, and other crops (EPA and INTOX).

Health Effects

Dermal absorption is the most common form of exposure but eye irritation can also occur and nausea and vomiting will occur if it is ingested (INCHEM). Acute effects are a result of the mode of absorption (dermal, inhalation, etc) but generally effects are as follows:
* dermal - skin irritation, pruritus, erythema, burning and blisters
* inhalation - typically is occupational and cause pulmonary tract irritation
* ingestion - nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pains
* oculer - blurry vision

Tefluthrin is not thought to have chronic health effects (INTOX).

External Links

References

National Poisons Information Service. "TEFLUTHRIN". 28/1/98.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). " Tefluthrin; Pesticide Tolerance". Federal Register November 26, 1997. Accessed 9-27-07.