Pyrethrins are naturally-occurring compounds with insecticidal properties that are found in pyrethrum extract from certain chrysanthemum flowers. The pyrethrins are often used in household insecticides and products to control insects on pets or livestock.
Pyrethroids are manufactured chemicals that are very similar in structure to the pyrethrins, but are often more toxic to insects as well as to mammals, and last longer in the environment than the pyrethrins. More than 1,000 synthetic pyrethroids have been developed, but less than a dozen of them are currently used in the United States. Permethrin is the most frequently used pyrethroid in the United States.
Pyrethrins and pyrethroids are insecticides that are applied to crops, garden plants, pets, and also directly to humans. High levels of pyrethrins or pyrethroids can cause
dizziness,
headache,
nausea,
muscle twitching,
reduced energy,
changes in awareness,
convulsions and loss of consciousness. Pyrethrins have been found in at least 5 of the 1,585 current or former NPL
sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and permethrin (a pyrethroid compound) has been found in at least 2 of the sites. No other pyrethroids were detected at NPL sites.
See a doctor if you have been harmed by this substance. In addition, it
may be important to
contact an attorney who
can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there
may be
timelimits within which you must commence suit.
Attorneys associatedwith InjuryBoard.com will evaluate your case
free of charge.
In addition, you will not pay any legal fees unless your attorney
recovers money for you. Please click on the free
contact an
attorney button
to take advantage of this valuable service.
Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
See Also
- Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Balance Problems: Overview
- Delirium: Overview
- Fatigue: Overview
- Female Infertility
- Headaches
- Immune Disorders
- Male Infertility: Overview
- Muscle Spasms: Overview
- Nausea: Overview
- Seizures: Overview
- Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids: Frequently Asked Questions