Allethrins

Allethrins are a pair of related synthetic compounds used in insecticides. They are pyrethroids, a type of cytotoxic molecule that kills by disrupting the function of the nervous system. Allethrins were first synthesized in the United States in 1949 and are commonly used in household insecticides such as mosquito coils. They are also the primary insecticidal component in some types of insect-repelling candles.

Chemistry

Allethrins are part of the pyrethroid family of insecticides, which are synthetic analogs of pyrethrins, natural insecticides derived from the flowers of Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium. Pyrethroids, including allethrins, are often preferred for insecticide use because of their high effectiveness and low toxicity to humans and animals.

Allethrins are esters of chrysanthemic acid. They are produced industrially by the esterification of chrysanthemic acid with allethrolone.

Mode of action

Allethrins exert their insecticidal effects by disrupting the function of the nervous system in insects. They bind to the voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, preventing normal function and causing paralysis and death. This mode of action is similar to that of other pyrethroids.

Safety

While allethrins are toxic to insects, they have low toxicity in mammals, including humans. However, they can cause some adverse health effects if improperly handled or ingested. Symptoms of exposure can include nausea, headache, and skin irritation. In severe cases, seizures may occur.

Environmental impact

Like other pyrethroids, allethrins are not very soluble in water and tend to bind strongly to soil particles. This means they do not typically leach into groundwater. However, they are toxic to aquatic organisms and can cause environmental harm if they enter water bodies.

See also

• Pyrethrin
• Pyrethroid
• Insecticide
• Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium