Permethrin is a neurotoxin insecticide that kills a wide range of insects, including beneficial ones. It is used for flea control in dogs and to treat parasitic infestations in humans. However, it can be fatal to cats and fish and has been linked to cancers in laboratory animals. It is also not recommended for pregnant women and nursing mothers.
Permethrin is a broad-spectrum contact insecticide that kills a wide variety of arthropods on contact, including fleas, ticks, scabies, lice, and bees, among many others. This product is sold for a variety of purposes, ranging from flea control in dogs to wood treatments to deter damage from boring insects. Some caution is advised when using permethrin, as it is fatal to cats and fish and has been linked to cancers in laboratory animals.
Historically, permethrin was derived from chrysanthemums, but in the 1970s it was produced synthetically. This insecticide acts as a neurotoxin, overstimulating the nervous system of insects that come into contact with it. One of the problems with permethrin is that it is an indiscriminate pesticide, killing all insects that come into contact with it, including beneficial arthropods. Mammals are also at risk of developing health problems if they ingest this insecticide or are exposed to large amounts of it, and some people experience severe allergic reactions when using it to treat parasitic infestations.
Several companies produce permethrin in a wide variety of formats. Sprays can be used to treat a large area for bugs and are sometimes used by campers and humanitarian organizations working in developing countries to keep bugs off bedding and clothing. Permethrin is also used in the treatment of some woods to prevent insect infestation.
In medical use, topical applications of permethrin are used to prevent fleas in dogs, although pet owners should be aware that these products should never be used on cats. Permethrin creams and lotions are also available to treat lice, scabies, and other parasitic infestations in humans. Typically, only one application is needed, as the insecticide will last for several washes.
Before someone uses a permethrin product to treat a parasitic infestation, they should discuss their health with a doctor. Permethrin can interact badly with some medications and is also not recommended for use by pregnant women and nursing mothers. A history of allergies, asthma and some other conditions may also contraindicate its use.
When using permethrin to treat wood, clothing, curtains, and so on, people should be aware that this type is not intended for topical use in humans and other animals, because it is very strong. The material should be allowed to dry completely after spray application to avoid direct contact with the permethrin and it may also be advisable to wear gloves during the spraying process. An application will typically last for two weeks or two washes, whichever comes first.
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