Home & Garden Pest Control

What Are the Dangers of Using Cypermethrin?

Cypermethrin is a man-made compound for pest control and spot treatments in multiple environments. It can also be dangerous to other animals that encounter them. This compound has proven to be highly toxic in fish, an unintended consequence of its use. It can also cause adverse health effects in humans.

Introduction

Cypermethrin is a neurotoxin that kills insects by causing central nervous system complications. Laboratory tests have shown that some insects quickly experience paralysis, restlessness, in-coordination and ultimately death after exposure to the chemical. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies several products that contain cypermethrin as restricted-use pesticides (RUP) because of its toxicity potential. Depending upon the specific product, it can be classified as moderately toxic (Class 2) or slightly toxic (Class 3).

Effects

Skin

People who distribute cypermethrin as part of their work, or who accidentally come in contact with the chemical, generally experience skin irritation in varying degrees. The National Pesticide Information Center explains that tingling itching, and burning of the skin are common effects in humans. Some people may also feel dizzy when working with this pesticide.

Organ

Cypermethrin can be inhaled. This is mostly likely to happen to a person who is applying the pesticide. If she has a respiratory condition or infection, then it can affect her by exacerbating the condition. This pesticide can have adverse effects on a person's digestive system. This can happen if he absorbs the pesticide through his skin or in the unlikely event that he ingests it. He can experience intense nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Cancer

Cypermethrin(52315-07-8) has been flagged by the EPA as a weak possible carcinogen in humans. It is a chemical that is part of group C, group C indicates substances that are potential human carcinogens or that may increase a person's risk of developing cancer. It can affect the central nervous system. In long-term experiments with test animals, exposure caused changes to the liver and kidneys. There is also the possibility that cypermethrin can cause death. If these symptoms are severe, there is a risk of dehydration. These effects usually occur only at high levels of exposure.

Protecting Yourself

As with any pesticide or chemical, safe use and handling is paramount. Because the body can absorb the substance by inhaling or ingesting it, the ILO advises that the substance only be used in a well-ventilated area. Moreover, people exposed to the substance must use appropriate personal protection equipment including a popper mask with face shield and protective gloves and clothing.


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