Buprofezin – toxicity, side effects, diseases and environmental impacts


Pesticide Properties DataBase entry classifies buprofezin as a thiadiazine insecticide that inhibits the molting process of various pests including white flies, leaf- and plant-hoppers, and scale insects as well as lady beetles and mealybugs. It was first introduced in 1984 and is commonly applied to staple crops such as rice, cucumbers, and tomatoes as well as sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, and cotton.

List of known side effects

An entry posted in the Pesticide Action Network North America (PANNA) website reveals that buprofezin may trigger the onset of reproductive and developmental toxicity, neurotoxicity, and acute toxicity. Likewise, the chemical is known to cause serious respiratory tract irritation. Buprofezin exposure is also associated with an increased risk of severe eye irritation and various skin conditions such as acanthosis and hyperkeratosis.

A Federal Register article also cites a toxicology report by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that links the harmful substance to adverse lung and thyroid conditions. The report notes that buprofezin exposure may result in increased microscopic lesions and inflammatory infiltrate of the liver. Likewise, direct chemical exposure is associated with higher incidence of microscopic lesions, follicular cell hyperplasia, and hypertrophy in the thyroid.

Furthermore, an article published on the Pub Chem website has also showed that the harmful compound may pollute water sources and threaten aquatic ecosystems and various animal species such as fishes, invertebrates, and crustaceans. The hazardous chemical is detrimental to aquatic plants, algae, and sediment-residing organisms too. Likewise, buprofexin is toxic to birds, mammals, and other beneficial animals such as honeybees, arthropods, and earthworms.

Body systems affected by buprofezin

Buprofezin is notoriously detrimental to both liver and thyroid health. Likewise, the hazardous substance is linked to poor respiratory health. The toxic chemical is also known to compromise both eye and skin health.

Items that can contain buprofezin

Buprofezin is the primary chemical component of several trade name insecticides, particularly the brand Applaud. The chemical comes in a soluble concentrate formulation and is widely used in Australia and the U.S.

How to avoid buprofezin

safety data sheet published by Agri Chem recommends wearing protective clothing, gloves, and respiratory equipment to mitigate the risk of buprofezin exposure. The data sheet also advises that work spaces put up adequate ventilation to protect workers from direct chemical contact. Likewise, the guidelines urge exposed individuals to contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical attention.

In addition, the data sheet recommends that people exposed to the harmful chemical be taken to an area with fresh air. Victims who had direct eye and skin contact are also advised to remove contaminated clothing articles and contact lenses and thoroughly wash the affected areas with plenty of water. The guidelines discourage victims who ingested the chemical from inducing vomiting. Instead, victims are advised to thoroughly rinse their mouth and seek immediate medical assistance.

Where to learn more

Summary

Buprofezin may cause reproductive and developmental toxicity, neurotoxicity, and acute toxicity.

Buprofezin exposure results in respiratory tract irritation, severe eye irritation, and various skin conditions.

Buprofezin leads to increased microscopic lesions and inflammatory infiltrate of the liver.

Buprofezin raises the odds of follicular cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy in the thyroid.

Buprofezin is notoriously detrimental to both liver and thyroid health.

Buprofezin targets the respiratory tract and compromises both eye and skin health.

Sources include:

Sitem.Herts.AC.uk

PesticideInfo.org

FederalRegister.gov

PubChem.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov

AgriChem.com [PDF]

 



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