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CAS 71751-41-2

Abamectin

Potential EDCPesticidesDevelopmental_Toxicity

Abamectin is a pesticide used to control mites and insects on crops and in some household baits. It affects the nervous system at high doses and is extremely toxic to bees and aquatic life [1][2].

Where It Comes From

Made from soil bacteria (avermectin family); used on fruits, vegetables, ornamentals, and in structural pest control products [1][2].

How You Are Exposed

Mixing or applying products; drift near treated fields; touching treated plants or baits; residues on produce; less likely through drinking water because it binds to soil, though runoff can carry it to surface water [1][3].

Why It Matters

Short-term high exposures can cause nausea, dizziness, tremors, dilated pupils, low blood pressure, and, rarely, coma; eye and skin irritation possible. EPA does not consider it a human carcinogen. Very toxic to bees [1][2][3].

Who Is at Risk

Pesticide applicators and farmworkers; people mixing concentrates; residents entering treated areas before the re-entry interval; and children in homes where baits are used [1][4].

How to Lower Your Exposure

Prefer non-chemical pest control; follow label directions and re-entry intervals; wear gloves and wash hands; keep baits and concentrates out of children’s reach; wash fruits and vegetables; close windows during nearby spraying [1][3][4].

References

  1. [1]U.S. EPA. Abamectin Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED), 1999.
  2. [2]WHO/FAO JMPR. Abamectin – Toxicological evaluation, 1996/1997.
  3. [3]U.S. EPA. Abamectin Registration Review: Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment.
  4. [4]National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC). Abamectin General Fact Sheet.

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