Pyrethrin Insecticide

1. Wipe or rinse out mouth.
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Rinse any exposed skin with lukewarm water.
4. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.

If someone gets a pyrethrin insecticide in the eye(s), there can be immediate burning and stinging, which requires prompt first aid to avoid an eye injury.

1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Quick Facts About Pyrethrin Insecticides:

Pyrethrin insecticides are related to pyrethrum, which comes from the chrysanthemum plant. They are considered one of the safest classes of insecticides available. They are the most common insecticide found in products intended for household use due to their relatively low toxicity to people and pets. 

Pyrethrins control pests such as fleas, mosquitoes, moths, and ants. Most pyrethrin insecticides available have additional ingredients to overcome insect resistance to the insecticide. The ingredients act synergistically or team together to provide maximum effectiveness.

There are thousands of products containing pyrethrins marketed for household use. These products are meant for indoor and outdoor use on crops and ornamental plants. Some products can also be used directly on people, livestock, and pets. Products come formulated as sprays, dust, foggers, shampoos, and topical products such as creams and lotions for people to treat lice and scabies, and veterinary products such as shampoos, dips, and sprays to treat flea and lice infestations.

Exposure and First Aid

Calls to the poison center involve people exposed to these products in many ways. Exposure can occur by getting it on the skin or in the eyes. Many times, with spray or dust products, there can be breathing in the overspray, especially when spraying overhead, or mist exposures when spraying outside due to wind shifts. Sometimes, when the product is applied indoors, without adequate ventilation, or one returns to an area too soon after a fogger or “bug bomb” has been used, exposure can happen. 

These are just a few examples of ways people get exposed to pyrethrin insecticides, but there are many more. Fortunately, these accidental exposures can be handled in the home without seeking medical care but with close observation and follow-up calls from the poison center.

When someone calls the poison center about getting a pyrethrin insecticide on the skin, the center will provide first-aid instructions. Gently washing the exposed area with soap and water is necessary. Exposure to the skin can result in burning, itching, and tingling paresthesia at the site of contact. If symptoms persist after first aid, the poison center will stay in contact with you to recommend further treatment.

When someone is exposed to the overspray or returning to an area treated with a fogger too soon, the recommendations will be to get into fresh air to relieve nasal, mouth, throat, or upper airway irritation. Drinking cool fluids can be of benefit. If someone with asthma is experiencing coughing and wheezing, they may require further treatment.

Prevention

Proper use of the pyrethrin insecticide will help to avoid accidental exposure. Read the packaging directions for the correct usage of the product. As always, correct storage of insecticides is essential to prevent accidental exposure. Keep products up high and out of reach for small children and pets.

If you find someone has been exposed to a pyrethrin insecticide, do not panic. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. Rinse any exposed skin with soap and water. If problems start or you have questions, call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.

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