Diphacinone
Diphacinone is a first-generation anticoagulant rodenticide used for controlling rodent populations. It is a chemical compound that interferes with the blood clotting process, leading to the death of rodents through internal bleeding. Diphacinone is part of the indandione class of anticoagulants and is used in both agricultural and urban settings.
Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]
Diphacinone is a synthetic chemical compound with the molecular formula C23H16O3. It is a yellow crystalline solid that is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. The compound is stable under normal conditions but can degrade when exposed to light and heat.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Diphacinone works by inhibiting the enzyme Vitamin K epoxide reductase, which is essential for the synthesis of active clotting factors in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, diphacinone prevents the recycling of Vitamin K, leading to a depletion of active clotting factors and resulting in uncontrolled bleeding.
Usage and Application[edit | edit source]
Diphacinone is commonly used in bait formulations for rodent control. It is available in various forms, including pellets, blocks, and liquid concentrates. The bait is typically placed in areas where rodent activity is observed, such as near burrows, along walls, and in attics or basements.
Toxicity and Safety[edit | edit source]
While diphacinone is effective in controlling rodent populations, it poses risks to non-target species, including pets and wildlife. Secondary poisoning can occur when predators consume poisoned rodents. Therefore, it is crucial to use diphacinone baits responsibly and follow all safety guidelines.
Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]
Diphacinone can persist in the environment and has the potential to bioaccumulate in the food chain. Its use is regulated to minimize environmental impact, and alternative methods of rodent control are often recommended in sensitive areas.
Regulation and Legal Status[edit | edit source]
The use of diphacinone is regulated by various governmental agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. It is classified as a restricted-use pesticide, meaning it can only be applied by certified applicators.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD