Where It Comes From
A manufactured insecticide in household pest products: coils/mats/vaporizers, aerosols, some yard foggers, and pet flea products. [1][2]
How You Are Exposed
Breathing during/after use, skin contact with sprays or treated surfaces, or hand‑to‑mouth ingestion (kids). [1][2]
Why It Matters
Can cause skin tingling, eye/throat irritation, cough, dizziness, headache, nausea; very high doses may cause seizures. Human cancer evidence is limited. Toxic to cats and fish. [1][2][3]
Who Is at Risk
Young children, people with asthma/COPD, frequent applicators, pregnant people, and pet cats. [1][2]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use non‑chemical controls first; follow labels; ventilate; avoid use in small, closed rooms; keep kids/pets away until dry; wash hands; store securely. [1][2]
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2019.
- [2]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for the Allethrins (including d-allethrin). 2004 and updates.
- [3]WHO IPCS. Allethrin (Pesticide Data Sheet No. 28). International Programme on Chemical Safety (INCHEM).