TETRAMETHRIN
CASRN: 7696-12-0
For other data, click on the Table of Contents

Human Health Effects:

Human Toxicity Excerpts:

In a semi-closed patch test, an aqueous emulsion containing 1.0% tetramethrin was applied to the skin of 200 human volunteers (aged 15-80, both male and female), using cotton gauze, for 4 days. After 2 weeks, an additional application was made in a same manner. Dermatological examination showed that tetramethrin is neither a primary irritant nor a human skin sensitizer.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.47 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The induction of unscheduled DNA synthesis in human amnion FL cells by tetramethrin (72% industrial grade of unknown origin) /was reported/.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.40 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Contact allergy from pyrethroids ... has not been observed. /Pyrethroids/
[Zenz, C., O.B. Dickerson, E.P. Horvath. Occupational Medicine. 3rd ed. St. Louis, MO., 1994 108]**PEER REVIEWED**

The allergenic properties of pyrethroids /with early pyrethrum preparations/ are marked in comparison with other pesticides. Many cases of contact dermatitis and respiratory allergy have been reported. Persons sensitive to ragweed pollen are particularly prone to such reactions. Preparations containing synthetic pyrethroids are less likely to cause allergic reactions than are the preparations made from pyrethrum powder. /Pyrethroids/
[Hardman, J.G., L.E. Limbird, P.B. Molinoff, R.W. Ruddon, A.G. Goodman (eds.). Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 1996. 1687]**PEER REVIEWED**

Pyrethroids are not cholinesterase inhibitors. /Pyrethroids/
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management ofPesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare 88]**PEER REVIEWED**

Some pyrethroid (eg, deltamethrin, fenvalerate, cyhalothrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, flucythrinate, and cypermethrin) may cause a transient itching and/or burning sensation in exposed human skin. /Synthetic pyrethroids/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 99: Cyhalothrin p.13 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Synthetic pyrethroids are neuropoisons acting on the axons in the peripheral and central nervous systems by interacting with sodium channels in mammals and/or insects. A single dose produces toxic signs in mammals, such as tremors, hyperexcitability, salivation, choreoathetosis, and paralysis. ... At near-lethal dose levels, synthetic pyrethroids cause transient changes in the nervous system, such as axonal swelling and/or breaks and myelin degeneration in sciatic nerves. They are not considered to cause delayed neurotoxicity of the kind induced by some organophosphorus compounds. /Synthetic prethroids/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 99: Cyhalothrin p.13 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The clinical manifestations of inhalation exposure to pyrethrins can be local or systemic. Localized reactors confined to the upper respiratory tract include rhinitis, sneezing, scratchy throat, oral mucosal edema, and even laryngeal mucosal edema. Localized reaction of the lower respiratory tract include cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest pain. An asthmalike reaction occurs with acute exposures in sensitized patients. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis characterized by chest pain, cough, dyspnea, & bronchospasm may occur in an individual chronically exposed. /Pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroids/
[Ellenhorn, M.J., S. Schonwald, G. Ordog, J. Wasserberger. Ellenhorn's Medical Toxicology: Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins, 1997. 1626]**PEER REVIEWED**

The low toxicity of pyrethroids in mammals is due largely to their rapid biotransformation by ester hydrolysis and/or hydroxylation. /Pyrethroids/
[Hardman, J.G., L.E. Limbird, P.B. Molinoff, R.W. Ruddon, A.G. Goodman (eds.). Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 1996. 1687]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:

Immediately irritating to the eye. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

The chief effect from exposure ... is skin rash particularly on moist areas of the skin. ... May irritate the eyes. /Pyrethroids/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 1]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Medical Surveillance:

Initial medical screening: Employees should be screened for history of certain medical conditions ... which might place the employee at increased risk from /pyrethroid/ exposure. Chronic respiratory disease: In persons with chronic respiratory disease, especially asthma, the inhalation of /pyrethroids/ might cause exacerbation of symptoms due to its sensitizing properities. Skin disease: /Pyrethroids/ can cause dermatitis which may be allergic in nature. Persons with pre-existing skin disorders may be more susceptible to the effects of this agent. Any employee developing the above-listed conditions should be referred for further medical examination. /Pyrethrum/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 1]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Probable Routes of Human Exposure:

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 9,244 workers (1,759 of these are female) are potentially exposed to tetramethrin in the US(1). The NOES Survey does not include farm workers. Occupational exposure to tetramethrin may occur through inhalation of dust particles and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where tetramethrin is produced or used(SRC).
[(1) NIOSH; National Occupational Exposure Survey (NOES) (1983)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Emergency Medical Treatment:

 

 

Emergency Medical Treatment:

 

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The following Overview, *** PYRETHRINS ***, is relevant for this HSDB record chemical.

Life Support:
  o   This overview assumes that basic life support measures
      have been instituted.                           
Clinical Effects:
  SUMMARY OF EXPOSURE
   0.2.1.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   The mammalian toxicity of natural pyrethrins is
         generally low.  Very young children are perhaps more
         susceptible to poisoning because they may not hydrolyze
         the pyrethrum esters efficiently.  In humans, allergic
         reactions are the main toxic manifestations of
         pyrethrin exposure.
      1.  Pyrethrum and the pyrethrins produce typical type I
          motor symptoms in mammals.  Severe type I poisoning
          may include the following signs in humans:
           Severe fine tremor
           Marked reflex hyperexcitability
           Sympathetic activation
           Paresthesia (dermal exposure)
     o   DERMAL - These compounds are not primary irritants.
         The chief effect, however, from exposure is dermatitis.
         The usual lesion is a mild erythematous dermatitis with
         vesicles, papules in moist areas, and intense pruritus;
         a bulbous dermatitis may also occur.  Pyrethrins can
         cause allergic dermatitis and systemic allergic
         reactions.
     o   INHALATION is the major route of exposure, with airway
         irritation as the primary toxic effect.  Following
         inhalation, a stuffy, runny nose and scratchy throat
         are common.  Hypersensitivity reactions including
         wheezing, sneezing, shortness of breath and
         bronchospasm may be noted.
     o   OCULAR - Eye exposures may result in mild to severe
         corneal damage that generally  resolves with
         conservative care.
     o   Piperonyl butoxide and other compounds are often added
         to pyrethrin insecticides as synergists and may
         contribute to toxicity.
     o   Synthetic pyrethroids, which are related to pyrethrins,
         are covered in a separate management.
  HEENT
   0.2.4.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   A stuffy, runny nose and scratchy throat following
         inhalational exposure may be noted.
     o   Eye exposures may result in mild to severe corneal
         damage, decreased visual acuity and periorbital edema.
  CARDIOVASCULAR
   0.2.5.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   Hypotension and tachycardia, associated with
         anaphylaxis, may occur.
  RESPIRATORY
   0.2.6.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   Hypersensitivity reactions characterized by
         pneumonitis, cough, dyspnea, wheezing, chest pain, and
         bronchospasm may occur.  Rare cases of respiratory
         failure and cardiopulmonary arrest have been reported.
  NEUROLOGIC
   0.2.7.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   Paresthesias, headaches, and dizziness are common.
         Massive exposure may result in hyperexcitability and
         seizures, but this is rare.
  GASTROINTESTINAL
   0.2.8.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain commonly occur and
         develop within 10 to 60 minutes following ingestion.
  DERMATOLOGIC
   0.2.14.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   Irritant and contact dermatitis may develop.  Erythema
         which mimics sunburn has also been noted after
         prolonged repeated exposure.
  ENDOCRINE
   0.2.16.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   Type I motor symptoms following severe poisoning may
         result in sympathetic activation.
  IMMUNOLOGIC
   0.2.19.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
     o   Sudden bronchospasm, swelling of oral and laryngeal
         mucous membranes, and anaphylactoid reactions have been
         reported after pyrethrum inhalation.  Hypersensitivity
         pneumonitis characterized by cough, shortness of
         breath, chest pain, and bronchospasm may be noted.
  GENOTOXICITY
    o   Pyrethrum is not mutagenic in bacterial reversion tests
        (Ray, 1991).                    
Laboratory:
  o   Pyrethrin plasma levels are not clinically useful or
      readily available.
  o   Monitor for allergic responses such as asthma or contact
      dermatitis.               
Treatment Overview:
  ORAL EXPOSURE
    o   There is no specific antidote for pyrethrin poisoning.
        Treatment is symptomatic and supportive and includes
        monitoring for the development of hypersensitivity
        reactions with respiratory distress.  Provide adequate
        airway management when needed.  Gastric decontamination
        is usually not required unless the pyrethrin product is
        combined with a hydrocarbon.
    o   ALLERGIC REACTION:  MILD:  antihistamines with or
        without epinephrine.   SEVERE:  oxygen, aggressive
        airway management, antihistamines, epinephrine  (ADULT:
        0.3 to 0.5 mL of a 1:1000 solution subcutaneously;
        CHILD:  0.01  mL/kg; may repeat in 20 to 30 min),
        corticosteroids, ECG monitoring, and IV fluids.
  INHALATION EXPOSURE
    o   INHALATION:  Move patient to fresh air.  Monitor for
        respiratory distress.  If cough or difficulty breathing
        develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation,
        bronchitis, or pneumonitis.  Administer oxygen and
        assist ventilation as required.  Treat bronchospasm with
        beta2  agonist and corticosteroid aerosols.
  EYE EXPOSURE
    o   DECONTAMINATION:  Irrigate exposed eyes with copious
        amounts of tepid water for at least 15 minutes.  If
        irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia
        persist, the patient should be seen in a health care
        facility.
  DERMAL EXPOSURE
    o   DECONTAMINATION:  Remove contaminated clothing and wash
        exposed  area thoroughly with soap and water.  A
        physician may need to  examine the area if irritation or
        pain persists.
    o   Vitamin E topical application is highly effective in
        relieving paresthesias.                
Range of Toxicity:
  o   The minimal lethal dose of pyrethrum is not established,
      but is probably  in the range of 10 to 100 grams.
  o   Hypersensitivity reactions may be noted, especially
      following a chronic dermal or inhalation exposure.
      Patients with underlying asthma may be  predisposed to
      severe bronchospastic reactions after exposure.


[Rumack BH: POISINDEX(R) Information System. Micromedex, Inc., Englewood, CO, 2001; CCIS Volume 110, edition exp November, 2001. Hall AH & Rumack BH (Eds):TOMES(R) Information System. Micromedex, Inc., Englewood, CO, 2001; CCIS Volume 110, edition exp November, 2001.] **PEER REVIEWED**

 

Antidote and Emergency Treatment:

Treatment is supportive, and most casual exposures require only decontamination. Topical vitamin E may ameliorate the paresthesias that accompany contact with synthetic pyrethroids containing an alpha-cyano group (e.g., fenvalerate, cypermethrin, flucythrinate). /Synthetic pyrethroids/
[Ellenhorn, M.J. and D.G. Barceloux. Medical Toxicology - Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. New York, NY: Elsevier Science Publishing Co., Inc. 1988. 1081]**PEER REVIEWED**

The additives (e.g. petroleum distillate), when present, represent a greater toxic threat to the patient than the active ingredient itself. ... Emesis should not be induced when petroleum distillate additives are present. ... The alert person with an intact gag reflex & a sublethal pyrethrum ingestion without other toxic constituents may have emesis induced by ipecac, followed by a saline cathartic & slurry of activated charcoal. ... Pulmonary & allergic sequelae are treated symptomatically with airway maintenance, oxygen, & ventilatory assistance as required. Standard drugs and management protocols may be used for treatment of bronchospasm & anaphylaxis. Seizures are treated with diazepam. /Pyrethrum and synthetic pyrethroids/
[Ellenhorn, M.J., S. Schonwald, G. Ordog, J. Wasserberger. Ellenhorn's Medical Toxicology: Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins, 1997. 1627]**PEER REVIEWED**

Basic treatment: . Establish a patent airway. Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Pyrethrins, pyrethroids, and related compounds/
[Bronstein, A.C., P.L. Currance; Emergency Care for Hazardous Materials Exposure. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO. Mosby Lifeline. 1994. 269]**PEER REVIEWED**

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for air way control in the patient who is unconscious. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start an IV with D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Pyrethrins, pyrethroids, and related compounds/
[Bronstein, A.C., P.L. Currance; Emergency Care for Hazardous Materials Exposure. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO. Mosby Lifeline. 1994.,p. 269-70]**PEER REVIEWED**

Skin decontamination. Wash skin promptly with soap and water ... . If irritant or paresthetic effects occur, obtain treatment by a physician. Because volatilization of pyrethroids apparently accounts for paresthesia affecting the face, strenuous measures should be taken (ventilation, protective face mask and hood) to avoid vapor contact with the face and eyes. Vitamin E oil preparations (dL-alpha tocopheryl acetate) are uniquely effective in preventing and stopping the paresthetic reaction. They are safe for application to the skin under field conditions. Corn oil is somewhat effective, but possible side effects with continuing use make it less suitable. Vaseline is less effective than corn oil. Zinc oxide actually worsens the reaction. /Pyrethroids/
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management ofPesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare 88]**PEER REVIEWED**

Eye contamination. Some pyrethroid compounds can be very corrosive to the eyes. Extraordinary measures should be taken to avoid eye contamination. the eye should be treated immediately by prolonged flushing of the eye with copious amounts of clean water or saline. If irritation persists, obtain professional ophthalmologic care. /Pyrethroids/
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management ofPesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare 88]**PEER REVIEWED**

Other treatments. Several drugs are effective in relieving the pyrethroid neurotoxic manifestations observed in deliberately poisoned laboratory animals, but none has been tested in human poisonings. Therefore, neither efficacy nor safety under these circumstances is known. Furthermore, moderate neurotoxic symptoms and signs are likely to resolve spontaneously if they do occur. /Pyrethroids/
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management ofPesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare 89]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Animal Toxicity Studies:

 

 

Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts:

Rats fed up to 2000 ppm in food for 3 months showed no toxic symptoms.
[Gosselin, R.E., R.P. Smith, H.C. Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. 5th ed. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins, 1984.,p. II-263]**PEER REVIEWED**

When tetramethrin (technical product) was orally administered at dose levels of 0, 50, 150, or 500 mg/kg body weight per day to pregnant Japanese white rabbits, (10 per group) on days 8-18 of pregnancy, a slight transient decline in the body weight of the dams was noted in the middle of the treatment period at 500 mg/kg. No adverse effects such as embryo lethality, inhibition of fetal growth, or teratogenic action were observed at any dose level. The NOEL for teratogenicity in rabbits was considered to be >500 mg/kg body weight per day.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.44 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Tetramethrin (technical product) was orally administered (dose levels of 0, 100, 300, and 1000 mg/kg body weight per day) to Slc: SD rats (SPF, 20 per group) from day 17 of gestation to day 21 of lactation (perinatal and postnatal period). In dams, a liver weight increase was noted at 300 and 1000 mg/kg but there were no abnormalities at delivery or during lactation. Tetramethrin had no detectable effects on the survival rate of pups, growth and development, sensory function, motor function, learning ability, or reproductive ability. The NOEL was considered to be 100 mg/kg body weight per day for dams and >1000 mg/kg body weight per day for pups.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.44 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The induction of unscheduled DNA synthesis in human amnion FL cells by tetramethrin (72% industrial grade of unknown origin) /was reported/. The same product gave weakly positive results in an Ames test with Salmonella typhimurium TA 97. It is not clear if the effect was caused by tetramethrin itself or by the unidentified (28%) portion of the industrial grade material.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.40 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Tetramethrin (techanical product) was orally administered (dose levels of 0, 100, 300, and 1000 mg/kg body weight per day) to 6 wk old male Slc:SD rats (SPF, 20 per group) for not less than 9 weeks and to 9-week-old females (20 per group) for 2 weeks of the non-pregnant period and up to day 7 of pregnancy. The effects of the material on the mating ability of male and female animals and on the fetuses were investigated. In males, the liver weight increased at all dose levels and a kidney weight increased was noted at 1000 mg/kg. Salivation and a slower body weight increase were observed during the latter half of the administration period at 300 and 1000 mg/kg. However, no effects on the reproductive ability of males were noted. In females, no changes were observed in the rate of pregnancy, but there were effects on the sexual cycle and an ovulation-inhibiting effect at 1000 mg/kg. In fetuses, growth inhibition was suspected at 1000 mg/kg. However, all these changes were slight. The NOEL was considered to be 300 mg/kg body weight per day for reproductive ability of parents and growth of fetuses.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.40 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

When tetramethrin (technical product, 93.3% purity) was fed daily to B6C3F1 mice (dose levels of 0, 12, 60, 300, or 1500 mg/kg diet) for 104 weeks, there were no significant dose-related changes in survival, clinical signs, mean body weight, or food consumption. However, the mortality of male mice at 300 mg/kg was significantly lower than that of control males. The absolute and relative weight of pituitary and thyroid/parathyroid glands was decreased for males fed 60 mg/kg diet or more. Absolute spleen weights were also decreased for males fed 300 mg/kg diet or more. However, gross and microscopic examination of these tissues did not reveal any treatment-related histomorphological changes. There were no other histopathological findings attributable to tetramethrin administration. The NOEL was considered to be 12 mg/kg diet.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.39 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

When tetramethrin (technical grade) was administered to Sprague-Dawley CRCDR rats (50 of each sex per group, F1A weanlings from parental animals pre-treated with the compound at dose levels of 1000, 3000, and 6000 mg/kg diet) at dose levels of 0, 1000, or 5000 mg/kg diet for weeks, no compound- related effects were detected in investigations of appearance, behavior, survival, hematology, blood chemistry, urinalysis, eye examination, and organ weight at up to 5000 mg/kg diet. However, the body weight gain of male and female rats fed 3000 mg/kg or more was significantly lower than that of controls. The incidence for testicular cell tumors was increased at dose levels of 3000 mg/kg or more.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.39 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Tetramethrin (technical grade, 90.0/93.6% purity) was tested for long-term toxic effects and tumorigenic potential in Sprague-Dawley CRCDR and Long-Evans hooded rats by in utero exposure and 104-week chronic exposure at dose levels of 0, 200, 1000, and 5000 mg/kg diet. No distinct compound-related effects were observed in either strain with regard to fertility rate, mortality, clinical signs, and clinical laboratory data. However, body weight gains were significantly lower in both strains at 5000 mg/kg diet, and absolute and relative liver weights were increased in both strains at 5000 mg/kg diet. The incidence of interstitial cell tumors in both strains at 5000 mg/kg diet was above the level in the concurrent control groups.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.39 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Hartley male guinea pigs, 0.5 ml [1R,cis/trans]-tetramethrin (technical product, 95.6% purity) in 0.5 ml acetone was applied topically by lint patch to the back of animals ten times (three times per week). The animals were challenged in the same manner 2 weeks after the last sensitizing treatment, but no allergic reactions were observed 24 hr later.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.36 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

When 0.5 ml [1R,cis/trans]-tetramethrin (technical grade, 95.6% purity) was applied on a lint patch (2.5 x 2.5 cm) to abraded or intact skin on the back of rabbits, again no irritating reactions such as erythema and edema were observed.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.36 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Half gram of the technical product (91.3% purity) was applied on a lint patch (3.8 x 3.8 cm) to the abraded or intact skin of six rabbits. The skin was assessed for severity of erythema and edema 4, 24, 48, 72 hr and 7, 14, and 21 days after application but no particular changes were noted.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.36 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

In a skin-sensitization study of tetramethrin in guinea-pigs, Hartley male guinea pigs (seven per group) were /treated/ ten times at intervals of one or two days by intracutaneous injections (first injection: 0.05 ml, subsequent ones: 0.1 ml) of a 1% solution of the technical product (91.3% purity) in corn oil. The /treated/ animals were then challenged against the same concentration in the same manner (0.5 ml injection) 14 days later, but no skin sensitization reaction was noted.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.36 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

0.1 Ml [1R,cis/trans]-tetramethrin (technical grade, 95.6% purity) was applied to one eye of Japanese albino rabbits. The treated eye was subsequently washed in five rabbits but not in three other rabbits. The material did not produce any lesions in the cornea or iris of the treated eyes that were not washed, but slight hyperemia and/or chemosis of the conjunctiva was observed 1 hr after application In the washed eyes, slight hyperemia of the conjunctiva was observed in all animals 1 hr after treatment. These changes, however, had disappeared by 48 h after application in the unwashed eyes and 24 hr in the washed eyes. The irritating potency of the material was judged to be minimal in the unwashed eyes and negative in the washed eyes.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.35 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

In a study 50 mg of the technical product (91.3% purity) was instilled in one eye of Japanese albino male rabbits. The treated eye was washed with distilled water 5 min (group I) or 24 hr (group II) thereafter. The conjunctiva, cornea, and pupil were examined, 1, 24, 72 hr and 7, 14, and 21 days after application. No particular changes were noted except that a very slight erythema and edema of the conjunctiva was transiently observed in the rabbits in group II.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.35 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The toxic symptoms observed following [1R,cis/trans]-tetramethrin administration were hyperexcitability, muscle twitching, tremor, ataxia, irregular respiration, and depression. Mice were invariably more susceptible than rats. No differences in susceptibility were observed between male and female animals.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.35 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Neither tetramethrin nor its 1R,cis/trans isomers were mutagenic in a variety of in vivo and in vitro test systems, which investigated gene mutations, DNA damage, DNA repair, and chromosomal effects.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.17 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The no-observed-effect level in a 26-week study in dogs was 1250 mg/kg diet.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.17 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

When rats were fed tetramethrin at dietary levels of up to 5000 mg/kg diet for 91 days, reduced body weight gain was observed at 5000 mg/kg diet. The results from 3 or 6 month feeding studies using the 1R, cis/trans isomer in rats at dietary levels ranging from 25 mg/kg diet to 3000 mg/kg diet indicated that the no-observed-effect level was 200 mg/kg diet for males and 300 mg/kg diet for females (observations included decreases in the body weight gain and in final body weight, and effect on the kidney and liver). The effects on the liver were thought to be an adaptive response to the feeding of the corn oil vehicle.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.17 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

When mice and rats were exposed to aerosolized tetramethrin by inhalation at a concentration of 200 mg/cu m for 3-4 h/day for up to 4 weeks, no significant compound related changes were observed. An additional inhalation study, in which rats were exposed to a mist (1.2-1.5 um diameter droplets) of 1R,cis/trans isomer in deodorized kerosene at concentrations up to 87 mg/cu m, 3 hr/day, 7 days/week for 28 days, indicated a no-observed-effect level of 49 mg/cu m. Toxic signs were noted only during the exposure period.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.17 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

In 13 wk feeding trials, dogs receiving 5000 mg/kg diet showed no ill effects. In 6 mo feeding trials, no-effect level for rats was 1500 mg/kg diet.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

Non-irritant to skin.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

The type I pyrethroids /including tetramethrin/ produce the simplest poisoning syndrome & produce sodium tail currents with relatively short time constants. Poisoning closely resembles that produced by DDT & involves a progressive development of fine whole-body tremor, exaggerated startle response, incoordinated twitching of the dorsal muscles, hyperexcitability, & death. The tremor is associated with a large incr in metabolic rate & leads to hyperthermia, which, with metabolic exhaustion, is the usual cause of death. Respiration & blood pressure are well sustained but plasma noradrenaline, lactate, & to a lesser extent adrenaline are greatly increased.
[Hayes, W.J., Jr., E.R. Laws, Jr., (eds.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2. Classes of Pesticides. New York, NY: Academic Press, Inc., 1991. 589]**PEER REVIEWED**

Tetramethrin (technical grade) was administered to Sprague-Dawley rats at dose levels of 0, 1000, 3000, and 6000 mg/kg diet for 9 weeks through weaning of the F1A generation. Body weight reduction occurred at 6000 mg/kg diet in the parent rats. The lactation index was depressed for the F1A generation at 6000 mg/kg diet, and the weaning body weights for both sexes of the F1A generation were reduced at doses of 3000 mg/kg diet or more. There were no other compound-related adverse effects. The NOEL was considered to be 1000 mg/kg diet.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.45 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

(1R,cis/trans)-tetramethrin (technical product, 93.4% purity) was administered at dose levels of 0, 100, 500, and 3000 mg/kg diet to two successive generations of Sprague-Dawley CDR albino rats to determine the effects on growth and reproductive performance. The body weights of parental females were significantly lower during the pre-mating growth, gestation, lactation, and post-weaning periods, and the body weight of offspring of both generations decreased during lactation at 3000 mg/kg diet. Slight bile duct hyperplasia was noted in F1 females sacrificed after a 30 day feeding period following weaning of the F2 offspring at 3000 mg/kg diet. This was, however, a commonly observed change in old rats. Thus, tetramethrin did not affect the reproductive performance of male and female rats in two successive generations at up to 500 mg/kg diet.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.45 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Groups of 10-15 pregnant New Zealand white rabbits received tetramethrin orally on days 6-18 of gestation at doses of 0, 30, or 90 mg/kg per day. Fetuses were obtained by caesarean section prior to parturition and were examined for external and skeletal abnormalties. Seven extra pregnant animals were allowed to give birth naturally and the pups were examined for several weeks to check their growth and development. No significant adverse effects were observed.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.40 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Non-systemic insecticide with contact action. Gives rapid knockdown.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

Synthetic pyrethroids have been shown to be toxic for fish, aquatic arthropods, and honeybees in laboratory tests. But, in practical usage, no serious adverse effects have been noticed because of the low rates of application and lack of persistence in the environment. The toxicity of synthetic pyrethroids in birds and domestic animals is low. /Synthetic pyrethroids/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 99: Cyhalothrin p.13 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The in vitro effects of pyrethroids on the mitogenic responsiveness of murine splenic lymphocytes to concanavalin A and lipopolysaccharide were determined. Allethrin was the most potent inhibitor, with effective concn in the range of 1X10-6 to 1.5X10-5 M. The results support the possibility of immune suppression by pyrethroid exposure. /Pyrethroids/
[Stelzer KJ, Gordon MA; Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 46 (1): 137-50 (1984)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The Type I poisoning syndrome or "T syndrome" is produced by esters lacking the alpha-cyano substituent and is characterized by restlessness, incoordination, prostration, and paralysis in the cockroach, ascompared to the rat, which exhibits such signs as sparring and aggressive behavior, enhanced startle response, whole body tremor, and prostration. /Pyrethroid esters lacking the alpha-cyano substituent/
[Klaassen, C.D., M.O. Amdur, Doull J. (eds.). Casarett and Doull's Toxicology. The Basic Science of Poisons. 5th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 1995. 666]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Non-Human Toxicity Values:

LD50 Mouse oral >20,000 mg/kg
[Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982. 549]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse dermal >15,000 mg/kg
[Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982. 549]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat oral >20 g/kg
[Gosselin, R.E., R.P. Smith, H.C. Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. 5th ed. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins, 1984.,p. II-263]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (male) sc 2020 mg/kg /1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (female) sc 1950 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (male) ip 631 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (female) ip 527 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat oral 4600 mg/kg /Racemic/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat dermal >10,000 mg/kg /Racemic/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (male) oral (animals not fasted, corn oil vehicle) 1920 mg/kg /Racemic/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (female) oral (animals not fasted, corn oil vehicle) 2000 mg/kg /Racemic/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat sc >5000 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat (male) ip 770 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat (female) ip 548 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (male) oral (animals not fasted) 1060 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse (female) oral (animals not fasted) 1040 mg/kg /(1R,cis/trans)-/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.34 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat oral >20 gm/kg
[Gosselin, R.E., R.P. Smith, H.C. Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. 5th ed. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins, 1984.,p. II-263]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mouse oral 5200 mg/kg
[Hartley, D. and H. Kidd (eds.). The Agrochemicals Handbook. 2nd ed. Lechworth, Herts, England: The Royal Society of Chemistry, 1987.,p. A388/Aug 87]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Albino rat male oral >4640 mg/kg
[Hartley, D. and H. Kidd (eds.). The Agrochemicals Handbook. 2nd ed. Lechworth, Herts, England: The Royal Society of Chemistry, 1987.,p. A388/Aug 87]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Rat percutaneous >5000 mg/kg
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Rat inhalation >2.74 mg/l air/3 hr
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Ecotoxicity Values:

LD50 Bobwhite quail oral >1000 mg/kg
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

LD50 Mallard duck oral >1000 mg/kg
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Bluegill sunfish 0.021 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Oryzias latipes (killifish) adult (static system @ 25 deg C) 0.2 mg/l/48 hr. /Technical/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Oryzias latipes (killifish) adult 0.2 mg/l/48 hr at 25 deg C static bioassay /(+)-trans/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Oryzias latipes (killifish) adult 0.5 mg/l/48 hr at 25 deg C static bioassay /(+)-Cis/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Lepomis macrochirur (Bluegill sunfish) 0.019 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Salmo gairdneri (Rainbout trout) 0.021 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Dapnia pulex (static system @ 25 deg C) >50 mg/l/3 hr /Technical/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Dapnia pulex (static system @ 25 deg C) > 50 mg/l/3 hr /(+)-trans/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

LC50 Dapnia pulex (static system @ 25 deg C) > 50 mg/l/3 hr /(+)-cis/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.33 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Metabolism/Pharmacokinetics:

 

 

Metabolism/Metabolites:

In mammals, the principal metabolite is 3-hydroxycyclohexan-1,2-dicarboximide
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

Acetone powder preparations of milkweed bugs, cockroaches, houseflies, cabbage loopers (Trichoplusia ni Hubner) and yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor L.) hydrolyzed both (+)-trans- and (+)-cis-isomers of tetramethrin. Of these two isomers, the (+)- trans-isomer was cleaved more rapidly.
[Menzie, C.M. Metabolism of Pesticides, Update II. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish Wildlife Service, Special Scientific Report - Wildlife No. 2l2.Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1978. 243]**PEER REVIEWED**

When phthalthrin was applied topically to houseflies, chromatography of extracts indicated the presence of chrysanthemic acid and N-hydroxymethyltetrahydrophthalimide. Three other compounds were not identified.
[Menzie, C.M. Metabolism of Pesticides-Update III. Special Scientific Report- Wildlife No. 232. Washington, DC: U.S.Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, 1980. 485]**PEER REVIEWED**

When alcohol- or acid-labelled [1RS,trans]-tetramethrin (1 mmol/litre) was incubated for 1 h at 37 deg C with 30 mg protein of a rat liver subcellular fraction (i.e. nuclei plus mitochondria, microsomes, and soluble fraction), the microsomes and nuclei plus mitochondria fractions were active in degrading tetramethrin. Rat microsomal fraction degraded [1R,trans]-tetramethrin to crysanthemic acid, N-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide, and 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide in the absence of NADPH. In the presence of NADPH, tetramethrin was more rapidly degraded to yield oxidized tetramethrin (wt-alc-, wt-ald-, and wt-acid-tetramethrin), oxidized chrysanthemic acid (wt-alc-, wt-ald-, and wt-acid-chyrsanthemic acid), 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide, and unidentified metabolites in larger amounts. The major metabolite 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide was shown to be produced non-enzymatically from N-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide. The degradation rate of tetramethrin was greatly reduced by the inhibition of ester hydrolysis with paraoxon.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.30 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Although both cis to trans and trans to cis isomerizations of tetramethrin were observed, cis to trans conversion seemed to be predominant. On the other hand, the detected metabolites from the alcohol moiety were 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide, cyclohexane-1,2-dicharboximide, 3-hydroxy-3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide, 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalic acid amide, 2-hydroxy-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide, 3-hydroxy-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide, and 4-hydroxy-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide. Of these metabolites, 2-hydroxy- cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide was found in relatively large amounts.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.30 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Following a single oral or subcutaneous administration to Sprague-Dawley rats of [1R,trans]- or [1R,cis]-tetramethrin, labelled with (14)C in the acid or alcohol moieties at concentrations of 3.2-5.3 mg/kg, ... the major metabolic reactions of both [1R,trans]- and [1R,cis]-tetramethrin were ester cleavage, loss of the hydroxymethyl group from the alcohol moiety, reduction of the 1-2 bound of the alcohol moiety, and oxidation at the isobutenyl group of the acid moiety and at the 2-, 3-, and 4-positions of the alcohol moiety. The metabolites produced via these reactions were in part conjugated with glucuronic acid. None of the trans isomer remained unmetabolized, whereas 0.3-1.2% of the cis isomer was found unchanged in the feces. The major metabolites from the acid moiety of both isomers were chrysanthemic acid and its derivatives oxidized at the trans-methyl of the isobutenyl group. 3-(2'-E-Carboxy-1'-propenyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid, (wt-acid-t,c-CA) accounted for 17-27% and 7-9% of the dose of the trans and cis isomers, respectively. Other significant metabolites were 3-(2'-E-hydroxymethyl-1'-propenyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid (wt,alc-t,c-CA), 3-(2'-Z-carboxy-1'-propenyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1- cyclopropanecarboxylic acid (wc-acid-t,c,-CA), and 3-(2'-Z-hydroxymethyl-1'- propenyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid (wc-alc-t,c-CA).
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.28 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

3,4,5,6-Tetrahydrophthalimide readily underwent the Micheal addition with thiols. The tetramethrin-glutathione conjugate was formed under physiological conditions in the presence of mouse liver homogenate fractions, probably by a non-enzymatic reaction. The soluble thiol level of mouse liver was decreased by intraperitoneal administration of 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide. However, mercapturic acid and GSH conjugates of tetramethrin were not detected in the bile or urine of rats or mice treated intraperitoneally with tetramethrin.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.30 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The relative resistance of mammals to the pyrethroids is almost wholly attributable to their ability to hydrolyze the pyrethroids rapidly to their inactive acid & alcohol components, since direct injection into the mammalian CNS leads to a susceptibility similar to that seen in insects. Some additional resistance of homeothermic organisms can also be attributed to the negative temperature coefficient of action of the pyrethroids, which are thus less toxic at mammalian body temperatures, but the major effect is metabolic. Metabolic disposal of the pyrethroids is very rapid, which means that toxicity is high by the iv route, moderate by slower oral absorption, & often unmeasureably low by dermal absorption. /Pyrethroids/
[Hayes, W.J., Jr., E.R. Laws, Jr., (eds.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2. Classes of Pesticides. New York, NY: Academic Press, Inc., 1991. 588]**PEER REVIEWED**

FASTEST BREAKDOWN IS SEEN WITH PRIMARY ALCOHOL ESTERS OF TRANS-SUBSTITUTED ACIDS SINCE THEY UNDERGO RAPID HYDROLYTIC & OXIDATIVE ATTACK. FOR ALL SECONDARY ALCOHOL ESTERS & FOR PRIMARY ALCOHOL CIS-SUBSTITUTED CYCLOPROPANECARBOXYLATES, OXIDATIVE ATTACK IS PREDOMINANT. /PYRETHROIDS/
[The Chemical Society. Foreign Compound Metabolism in Mammals. Volume 5: A Review of the Literature Published during 1976 and 1977. London: The Chemical Society, 1979. 469]**PEER REVIEWED**

Synthetic pyrethroids are generally metabolized in mammals through ester hydrolysis, oxidation, and conjugation, and there is no tendency to accumulate in tissues. In the environment, synthetic pyrethroids are fairly rapidly degraded in soil and in plants. Ester hydrolysis and oxidation at various sites on the molecule are the major degradation processes. /Synthetic pyrethroids/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 99: Cyhalothrin p.13 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Absorption, Distribution & Excretion:

Following a single oral or subcutaneous admin to Sprague-Dawley rats of [1R,trans]- or [1R,cis]-tetramethrin, labelled with (14)C in the acid or alcohol moieties at concn of 3.2-5.3 mg/kg, the radiocarbon was rapidly & almost completely eliminated from the rat body. The total recoveries 7 days after admin were 93-97% for the trans isomer & 90-101% for the cis isomer (approx equal amounts being eliminated in urine & feces). In the cases of the oral dose of acid-labelled tetramethrin, 1-3% of the radiolabel was excreted as (14)CO2, whereas in other cases (14)CO2 accounted for <1% of the dose. The tissue residue 7 days after admin was very low. The trans isomer yielded somewhat more complete radiolabel recovery & lower tissue residues than the cis isomer. In addtn, acid labelling resulted in slightly lower tissue residues than did alcohol labelling. However, there were no significant differences, according to sex or admin route, in the total radiocarbon recoveries & tissue residue levels.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.28 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Tetramethrin is readily absorbed & excreted by rats. Following a single oral admin of [1RS,trans]-tetramethrin, labelled with (14)C at the carbonyl group of the alcohol moiety, to male Wistar rats at a concn of 500 mg/kg, 47% & 42% of the radiolabel were excreted into the urine & feces, respectively, during the subsequent 2 days & 95% was recovered during the 5 day period that followed dosing. The tissue levels during the first 2 days after admin were very low & the tetramethrin content in tissues was <0.01% of the dosed radioactivity. Unmetabolized trans-tetramethrin was not excreted into the urine, & the major metabolite was 3-hydroxy-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide in free & glucuronide forms. N-(Hydroxymethyl)-3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide, & cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide were identified as minor urinary & fecal metabolites.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.18 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

1. The toxicokinetics of cis- & trans-tetramethrin isomers were investigated using the isolated perfused rat liver preparation. 2. The concn of cis- & trans-tetramethrin decr rapidly in the plasma perfusate & was initially replaced by N-(hydroxymethyl)3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide & then by 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide. Plasma perfusate concn of the intact cis-isomer were higher than those of the trans-isomer. Concn of N-(hydroxymethyl)3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide & 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide were higher in livers treated with the trans-isomer. 3. Tetramethrin & its metabolites were rapidly excreted in the bile. Bile from livers perfused with trans-isomer contained higher concn of parent isomer & metabolites N-(hydroxymethyl)3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide & 3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide, than did bile from livers treated with the cis-isomer.
[Silver IS, Dauterman WC; Xenobiotica 19 (5): 509-19 (1989)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Bile collected from rats treated by iv injection with (14)C labeled isomers of the pyrethroid insecticide tetramethrin /was analyzed/. For both the cis & trans isomers, the excretion of radioactivity into the bile was rapid; 25% of the admin radioactivity was excreted within 1 hr of dosing. Within an 8 hr period, approximately 41% of the admin dose of either isomer was excreted in the bile. Tetramethrin isomers & their metabolites were also rapidly excreted in bile in isolated perfused rat liver studies ... & accounted for approximately 18% of the admin radioactivity with 15 min. 3 hr after admin of the tetramethrin isomer to the reservoir of the isolated perfused rat liver system, 41% of the admin radioactivity was excreted in bile.
[Hayes, W.J., Jr., E.R. Laws, Jr., (eds.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2. Classes of Pesticides. New York, NY: Academic Press, Inc., 1991. 154]**PEER REVIEWED**

In rats, following oral admin, around 95% of tetramethrin (metabolized) is eliminated in the urine and feces within 5 days.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

/PYRETHROIDS/ READILY PENETRATE INSECT CUTICLE AS SHOWN BY TOPICAL LD50 TO PERIPLANETA (COCKROACH) ... /PYRETHROIDS/
[White-Stevens, R. (ed.). Pesticides in the Environment: Volume 1, Part 1, Part 2. New York: Marcel Dekker, Inc., 1971. 75]**PEER REVIEWED**

WHEN RADIOACTIVE PYRETHROID IS ADMIN ORALLY TO MAMMALS, IT IS ABSORBED FROM INTESTINAL TRACT OF THE ANIMALS & DISTRIBUTED IN EVERY TISSUE EXAMINED. EXCRETION OF RADIOACTIVITY IN RATS ADMIN TRANS-ISOMER: DOSAGE: 500 MG/KG; INTERVAL 20 DAYS; URINE 36%; FECES 64%; TOTAL 100%. /PYRETHROIDS/
[MIYAMOTO J; ENVIRON HEALTH PERSPECT 14: 15-28 (1976)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Rats /were/ treated by iv injection with C-labeled isomers of the pyrethroid insecticide tetramethrin. For both the cis & trans isomers, the excretion of radioactivity into the bile was rapid; 25% of the admin radioactivity was excreted with in 1 hr of dosing. Within an 8 hr period, approx 41% of the admin dose of either isomer was excreted in the bile. Tetramethrin isomers & their metabolites were also rapidly excrete in bile in isolated perfused rat liver studies & accounted for approx 18% of the admin radioactivity with 15 min. Three hr after admin of the tetramethrin isomer to the reservoir of the isolated perfused rat liver system, 41% of the admin radioactivity was excreted in bile.
[Hayes, W.J., Jr., E.R. Laws Jr., (eds.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology Volume 1. General Principles. New York, NY: Academic Press, Inc., 1991. 155]**PEER REVIEWED**

Although limited absorption may account for the low toxicity of some pyrethroids, rapid biodegradation by mammalian liver enzymes (ester hydrolysis and oxidation) is probably the major factor responsible. Most pyrethroid metabolites are promptly excreted, at least in part, by the kidney. /Pyrethroids/
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management ofPesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare 87]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Mechanism of Action:

Tetramethrin greatly prolongs the sodium current during step depolarization and the sodium tail current associated with step repolarization of the squid axon membrane. Non-linear current-voltage relationships for the sodium tail current were analyzed to assess the open sodium channel properties, which included the permeation of various cations, calcium block, and cation selectivity. Tetramethrin had no effect on any of these properties. It was concluded that tetramethrin modifies the sodium channel gating mechanism without affecting the pore properties.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.46 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

1R,trans-Tetramethrin markedly prolongs the open time of single sodium channels recorded by the gigaohmseal voltage clamp technique in a membrane patch excised from the N1E-115 neuroblastoma cell. Single channel conductance is not altered by tetramethrin. The modification by tetramethrin occurs in an all or nothing manner in a population of sodium channels. The observed tetramethrin-induced modification of single sodium channels is compatible with previous sodium current data from axons.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.46 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Analysis of the dose dependence of the two kinetic phases of tail current development suggests that the apparent dissociation constant for 1R,trans-tetramethrin depends on the conformational state of the channel. Thus, it can be concluded that tetramethrin binds to sodium channels and modifies the state of the channel in the resting, open, or inactivated state.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.46 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

In electrophysiological studies, tetramethrin produced repetitive discharges in housefly muscle and uncoupling in motor units and caused repetitive firing in cockroach cercal sensory nerves at a concentration of 3 x 10-13 mol/litre.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.45 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The effects of tetramethrin on the sodium channel gating mechanism were studied using the squid giant axons under voltage clamp conditions. Tetramethrin prolonged the falling phase of sodium current during depolarization and increased and prolonged the tail current associated with repolarization. The prolongation of the sodium current was due to the channel remaining open. The channel returned slowly to the resting state upon repolarization.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.45 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

The synthetic pyrethroids delay closure of the sodium channel, resulting in a sodium tail current that is characterized by a slow influx of sodium during the end of depolarization. Apparently the pyrethroid molecule holds the activation gate in the open position. Pyrethroids with an alpha-cyano group (e.g., fenvalerate) produce more prolonged sodium tail currents than do other pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, bioresmethrin). The former group of pyrethroids causes more cutaneous sensations than the latter. /Synthetic pyrethroids/
[Ellenhorn, M.J. and D.G. Barceloux. Medical Toxicology - Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. New York, NY: Elsevier Science Publishing Co., Inc. 1988. 1081]**PEER REVIEWED**

Interaction with sodium channels is not the only mechanism of action proposed for the pyrethroids. Their effects on the CNS have led various workers to suggest actions via antagonism of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated inhibition, modulation of nicotinic cholinergic transmission, enhancement of noradrenaline release, or actions on calcium ions. Since neurotransmitter specific pharmacological agents offer only poor or partical protection against poisoning, it is unlikely that one of these effects represents the primary mechanism of action of the pyrethroids, & most neurotransmitter release is secondary to incr sodium entry. /Pyrethroids/
[Hayes, W.J., Jr., E.R. Laws, Jr., (eds.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2. Classes of Pesticides. New York, NY: Academic Press, Inc., 1991. 588]**PEER REVIEWED**

The interaction of a series of pyrethroid insecticides with the sodium channels in myelinated nerve fibers of the clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, was investigated using the voltage clamp technique. Of 11 pyrethroids, 9 insecticidally active cmpd induced a slowly decaying sodium tail current on termination of a step depolarization, whereas the sodium current during depolarization was hardly affected. /Pyrethroids/
[Vijverberg HP M et al; Biochem Biophys Acta 728 (1): 73-82 (1983)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Mode of action of pyrethrum & related cmpd has been studied more in insects & in other invertebrates than in mammals. This action involves ion transport through the membrane of nerve axons &, at least in invertebrates & lower vertebrates, it exhibits a negative temperature coefficient. In both of these important ways & in many details, the mode of action of pyrethrin & pyrethroids resembles that of DDT. Esterases & mixed-function oxidase system differ in their relative importance for metabolizing different synthetic pyrethroids. The same may be true of the constituents of pyrethrum, depending on strain, species, & other factors. /Pyrethrins and pyrethroids/
[Hayes, Wayland J., Jr. Pesticides Studied in Man. Baltimore/London: Williams and Wilkins, 1982. 75]**PEER REVIEWED**

The primary target site of pyrethroid insecticides in the vertebrate nervous system is the sodium channel in the nerve membrane. Pyrethroids without an alpha-cyano group (allethrin, d-phenothrin, permethrin, and cismethrin) cause a moderate prolongation of the transient increase in sodium permeability of the nerve membrane during excitation. This results in relatively short trains of repetitive nerve impulses in sense organs, sensory (afferent) nerve fibers, and, in effect, nerve terminals. On the other hand the alpha-cyano pyrethroids cause a long lasting prolongation of the transient increase in sodium permeability of the nerve membrane during excitation. This results in long-lasting trains of repetitive impulses in sense organs and a frequency-dependent depression of the nerve impulse in nerve fibers. The difference in effects between permethrin and cypermethrin, which have identical molecular structures except for the presence of an alpha-cyano group on the phenoxybenzyl alcohol, indicates that it is this alpha-cyano group that is responsible for the long-lasting prolongation of the sodium permeability. Since the mechanisms responsible for nerve impulse generation and conduction are basically the same throughout the entire nervous system, pyrethroids may also induce repetitive activity in various parts of the brain. The difference in symptoms of poisoning by alpha-cyano pyrethroids, compared with the classical pyrethroids, is not necessarily due to an exclusive central site of action. It may be related to the long-lasting repetitive activity in sense organs and possibly in other parts of the nervous system, which, in a more advance state of poisoning, may be accompanied by a frequency-dependent depression of the nervous impulse. /Synthetic pyrethroids/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 99: Cyhalothrin p.89 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Pyrethroids also cause pronounced repetitive activity and a prolongation of the transient increase in sodium permeability of the nerve membrane in insects and other invertebrates. Available information indicates that the sodium channel in the nerve membrane is also the most important target site of pyrethroids in the invertebrate nervous system. /Synthetic pyrethroids/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 99: Cyhalothrin p.90 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Type I Pyrethroid esters /lacking the alpha-cyano substituents/ affect sodium channels in nerve membranes, causing repetitive (sensory, motor) neuronal discharge and a prolonged negative afterpotential, the effects being quite similar to those produced by DDT. /Pyrethroid esters lacking the alpha-cyano substituent/
[Klaassen, C.D., M.O. Amdur, Doull J. (eds.). Casarett and Doull's Toxicology. The Basic Science of Poisons. 5th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 1995. 668]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Interactions:

/Pyrethroid/ detoxification ... important in flies, may be delayed by the addition of synergists ... organophosphates or carbamates ... to guarantee a lethal effect. ... /Pyrethroid/
[Buchel KH (ed); Chemistry of Pesticides p.19 (1983)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Piperonyl butoxide potentiates /insecticidal activity/ of pyrethrins by inhibiting the hydrolytic enzymes responsible for pyrethrins' metabolism in arthropods. When piperonyl butoxide is combined with pyrethrins, the insecticidal activity of the latter drug is increased 2-12 times /Pyrethrins/
[McEvoy, G.K. (ed.). American Hospital Formulary Service - Drug Information 2000.Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. 2000 (Plus Supplements). 3203]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Pharmacology:

 

 

Therapeutic Uses:

Pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide are used for topical treatment of pediculosis (lice infestations). Combinations of pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide are not effective for treatment of scabies (mite infestations). Although there are no well-controlled comparative studies, many clinicians consider 1% lindane to be pediculicide of choice. However, some clinicians recommend use of pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide, esp in infants, young children, & pregnant or lactating women ... . If used correctly, 1-3 treatments ... are usually 100% effective ... Oil based (eg, petroleum distillate) combinations ... produce the quickest results. ... For treatment of pediculosis, enough gel, shampoo, or solution ... should be applied to cover affected hair & adjacent areas ... After 10 min, hair is ... washed thoroughly ... treatment should be repeated after 7-10 days to kill any newly hatched lice. /Pyrethrins/
[McEvoy, G.K. (ed.). American Hospital Formulary Service - Drug Information 2000.Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. 2000 (Plus Supplements). 3203]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Interactions:

/Pyrethroid/ detoxification ... important in flies, may be delayed by the addition of synergists ... organophosphates or carbamates ... to guarantee a lethal effect. ... /Pyrethroid/
[Buchel KH (ed); Chemistry of Pesticides p.19 (1983)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Piperonyl butoxide potentiates /insecticidal activity/ of pyrethrins by inhibiting the hydrolytic enzymes responsible for pyrethrins' metabolism in arthropods. When piperonyl butoxide is combined with pyrethrins, the insecticidal activity of the latter drug is increased 2-12 times /Pyrethrins/
[McEvoy, G.K. (ed.). American Hospital Formulary Service - Drug Information 2000.Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. 2000 (Plus Supplements). 3203]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Environmental Fate & Exposure:

 

 

Environmental Fate/Exposure Summary:

Tetramethrin's production and use as an insecticide will result in its release to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 7.1X10-6 mm Hg at 30 deg C indicates tetramethrin will exist in both the vapor and particulate phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase tetramethrin will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals and ozone molecules. The half-life for the reaction in air with hydroxyl radicals is estimated to be 3 hours. The half-life for the reaction in air with ozone is estimated to be 30 minutes. Direct photolysis may also be an important fate process for this compound based on a photodegradation half-life of approximately 1 hour for tetramethrin on glass films irradiated with a sunlamp. Particulate-phase tetramethrin will be removed from the atmosphere by wet and dry deposition. If released to soil, tetramethrin is expected to have no mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 8,900. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces may be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization. Tetramethrin is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Although biodegradation data for tetramethrin are not available, the pyrethroid class of insecticides is degraded readily by environmental microorganisms and based upon its structure, tetramethrin is also expected to degrade readily. If released into water, tetramethrin is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon its estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces may be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 26 and 290 days, respectively. However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 36 years when adsorption is considered. An estimated BCF of 20 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Estimated hydrolysis half-lives are 2.5 years and 90 days at a pH of 7 and 8, respectively. Occupational exposure to tetramethrin may occur through inhalation of dust particles and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where tetramethrin is produced or used. (SRC)
**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Probable Routes of Human Exposure:

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 9,244 workers (1,759 of these are female) are potentially exposed to tetramethrin in the US(1). The NOES Survey does not include farm workers. Occupational exposure to tetramethrin may occur through inhalation of dust particles and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where tetramethrin is produced or used(SRC).
[(1) NIOSH; National Occupational Exposure Survey (NOES) (1983)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Artificial Pollution Sources:

Tetramethrin's production and use as an insecticide(1) is expected to result in its release to the environment(SRC).
[(1) Budavari S; The Merck Index 12th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co Inc p. 648 (1996)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Environmental Fate:

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 8,900(SRC), determined from a measured log Kow of 4.73(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that tetramethrin is expected to be immobile in soil(SRC). Volatilization of tetramethrin from moist soil surfaces may be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), determined from its vapor pressure, 7.1X10-6 mm Hg at 30 deg C(4), and water solubility, 1.83 mg/l at 25 deg C(4). However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization(SRC). Tetramethrin is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 7.1X10-6 mm Hg(4). Direct photolysis on soil surfaces may be an important fate process based on a photolysis half-life of approximately 1 hour(7). Although biodegradation data for tetramethrin are not available, the pyrethroid class of insecticides is degraded readily by environmental microorganisms(5,6) and based upon its structure, tetramethrin is also expected to biodegrade readily(5,6).
[(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983) (2) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 164 (1995) (3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9 (1990) (4) Tomlin CDS, ed; The Pesticide Manual. 11th ed. Farnham, UK: British Crop Prot Council, Crop Prot Pub p. 1179 (1997) (5) Demoute JP; Pestic Sci 27: 375-85 (1989) (6) Casida JE et al; Arch Environ Contam 3: 491-500 (1976) (7) Chen YL, Casida JE; J Agric Food Chem 17: 208-215 (1969)]**PEER REVIEWED**

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 8,900(SRC), determined from a measured log Kow of 4.73(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that tetramethrin is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces may be expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), determined from its vapor pressure, 7.1X10-6 mm Hg at 30 deg C(4), and water solubility, 1.83 mg/l at 25 deg C(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 26 and 290 days, respectively(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. Direct photolysis may be an important fate process in surface waters based on a photolysis half-life of approximately 1 hour(5). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 20(SRC), from its log Kow of 4.73(2) and a regression-derived equation(7), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Although biodegradation data for tetramethrin are not available, the pyrethroid class of insecticides is degraded readily by environmental microorganisms(8,9) and based upon its structure, tetramethrin is also expected to biodegrade readily(8,9).
[(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983) (2) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 164 (1995) (3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9, 15-1 to 15-29 (1990) (4) Tomlin CDS, ed; The Pesticide Manual. 11th ed. Farnham, UK: British Crop Prot Council, Crop Prot Pub p. 1179 (1997) (5) Chen YL, Casida JE; J Agric Food Chem 17: 208-215 (1969) (6) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994) (7) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999) (8) Demoute JP; Pestic Sci 27: 375-85 (1989) (9) Casida JE et al; Arch Environ Contam 3: 491-500 (1976)]**PEER REVIEWED**

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), tetramethrin, which has a vapor pressure of 7.1X10-6 mm Hg at 30 deg C(2), will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase tetramethrin is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC) and ozone molecules. The half-life for the reaction in air with hydroxyl radicals is estimated to be 3 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.3X10-10 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(SRC) determined using a structure estimation method(3). The half-life for the reaction in air with ozone molecules is estimated to be 30 minutes(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 5.0X10-16 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(SRC) determined using a structure estimation method. Direct photolysis is also expected to be an important fate process based on a photolysis half-life of approximately 1 hour for tetramethrin on glass films irradiated with a sunlamp(4). Particulate-phase tetramethrin may be removed from the air by wet and dry deposition(SRC).
[(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988) (2) Tomlin CDS, ed; The Pesticide Manual. 11th ed. Farnham, UK: British Crop Prot Council, Crop Prot Pub p. 1179 (1997) (3) Meylan WM, Howard PH; Chemosphere 26: 2293-99 (1993) (4) Chen YL, Casida JE; J Agric Food Chem 17: 208-215 (1969)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Environmental Biodegradation:

Although environmental biodegradation data specific to tetramethrin are not available, the pyrethroid class of insecticides is degraded readily by environmental microorganisms(1,2); based upon its structure, tetramethrin is also expected to biodegrade readily(1,2).
[(1) Demoute JP; Pestic Sci 27: 375-85 (1989) (2) Casida JE et al; Arch Environ Contam 3: 491-500 (1976)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Environmental Abiotic Degradation:

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of tetramethrin with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.3X10-10 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 3 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of tetramethrin with ozone molecules has been estimated as 5.0X10-16 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 30 minutes at an atmospheric concentration of 7X10+11 ozone molecules per cu cm(2). A base-catalyzed second-order hydrolysis rate constant of 0.088 L/mole-sec(SRC) was estimated using a structure estimation method(3); this corresponds to half-lives of 2.5 years and 90 days at pH values of 7 and 8, respectively(3). The photodegradation half-life of tetramethrin on glass films exposed to a sunlamp was approximately 1 hour, with nearly 100% photodecomposition observed after 15 hours of illumination(4). However, trifluralin was found to stabilize tetramethrin to photodecomposition; only 2% of applied tetramethrin was photodecomposed from a silica gel plate after 18 hours of irradiation when trifluralin was used(5).
[(1) Meylan WM, Howard PH; Chemosphere 26: 2293-99 (1993) (2) Atkinson R, Carter WPL; Chem Reviews 84: 437-70 (1984) (3) Mill T et al; Environmental Fate and Exposure Studies Development of a PC-SAR for Hydrolysis: Esters, Alkyl Halides and Epoxides. EPA Contract No. 68-02-4254. Menlo Park, CA: SRI International (1987) (4) Chen YL, Casida JE; J Agric Food Chem 17: 208-215 (1969) (5) Dureja P et al; J Agric Food Chem 32: 246-250 (1984)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Environmental Bioconcentration:

An estimated BCF of 20 was calculated for tetramethrin(SRC), using a log Kow of 4.73(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).
[(1) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 164 (1995) (2) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999) (3) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Soil Adsorption/Mobility:

The Koc of tetramethrin is estimated as 8,900(SRC), using a measured log Kow of 4.73(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that tetramethrin is expected to be immobile in soil.
[(1) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 164 (1995) (2) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9 (1990) (3) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Volatilization from Water/Soil:

The Henry's Law constant for tetramethrin is estimated as 1.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure, 7.1X10-6 mm Hg at 30 deg C(1), and water solubility, 1.83 mg/l at 25 deg C(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that tetramethrin may volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 26 days(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 290 days(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The estimated volatilation half-life from a model pond is 36 years if adsorption is considered(3). Tetramethrin's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Tetramethrin is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).
[(1) Tomlin CDS, ed; The Pesticide Manual. 11th ed. Farnham, UK: British Crop Prot Council, Crop Prot Pub p. 1179 (1997) (2) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990) (3) US EPA; EXAMS II Computer Simulation (1987)]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Environmental Standards & Regulations:

 

 

FIFRA Requirements:

As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their future use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether they are eligible for reregistration. In addition, all pesticides must meet the new safety standard of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Pesticides for which EPA had not issued Registration Standards prior to the effective date of FIFRA, as amended in 1988, were divided into three lists based upon their potential for human exposure and other factors, with List B containing pesticides of greater concern and List D pesticides of less concern. Tetramethrin is found on List B. Case No: 2660; Pesticide type: Insecticide; Case Status: OPP is reviewing data from the pesticide's producers regarding its human health and/or environmental effects, or OPP is determining the pesticide's eligibility for reregistration and developing the Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) document.; Active ingredient (AI): (1-Cyclohexene-1,2-dicarboximido)methyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylpropenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate; Data Call-in (DCI) Date(s): 06/10/91, 10/13/95; AI Status: The producers of the pesticide has made commitments to conduct the studies and pay the fees required for reregistration, and are meeting those commitments in a timely manner.
[USEPA/OPP; Status of Pesticides in Registration, Reregistration and Special Review p.212 (Spring, 1998) EPA 738-R-98-002]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Chemical/Physical Properties:

 

 

Molecular Formula:

C19-H25-N-O4
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs and Biologicals. Rahway, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1989. 1453]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Molecular Weight:

331.41
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996. 1576]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Color/Form:

White crystalline solid
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996. 1576]**PEER REVIEWED**

Colorless crystals
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Odor:

Slight pyrethrum-like odor
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Boiling Point:

180-190 deg C at 0.1 mm Hg
[Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982. 549]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Melting Point:

68-70 deg C
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Corrosivity:

Non-corrosive
[Hartley, D. and H. Kidd (eds.). The Agrochemicals Handbook. 2nd ed. Lechworth, Herts, England: The Royal Society of Chemistry, 1987.,p. A388/Aug 87]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Density/Specific Gravity:

1.108 @ 20 deg C/20 deg C
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996. 1576]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Octanol/Water Partition Coefficient:

log Kow = 4.73
[Hansch, C., Leo, A., D. Hoekman. Exploring QSAR - Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. Washington, DC: American Chemical Society., 1995. 164]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Solubilities:

Methanol (53 g/kg), hexane (20 g/kg), xylene (1 g/kg), acetone, toluene.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.23 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

In acetone, ethanol, methanol, hexane, n-octanol all >2 g/100 ml.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

In water, 1.83 mg/l @ 25 deg C.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Spectral Properties:

Index of refraction: 1.5175 at 21.5 deg C/D
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996. 1576]**PEER REVIEWED**

Intense mass spectral peaks: 79 m/z, 107 m/z, 123 m/z, 164 m/z.
[Hites, R.A. Handbook of Mass Spectra of Environmental Contaminants. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press Inc., 1985. 372]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Vapor Pressure:

7.1X10-6 mm Hg @ 30 deg C
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Other Chemical/Physical Properties:

MP: 60-80 deg C /Technical/
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Chemical Safety & Handling:

 

 

Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:

Immediately irritating to the eye. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

The chief effect from exposure ... is skin rash particularly on moist areas of the skin. ... May irritate the eyes. /Pyrethroids/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 1]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Fire Fighting Procedures:

Use carbon dioxide, foam, or dry chemical /on fires involving pyrethroids/. /Pyrethrum/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 2]**PEER REVIEWED**

Fire-fighting: Self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated in pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode. /Pyrethrum/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 5]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Hazardous Reactivities & Incompatibilities:

Incompatible with mineral carriers such as kieselguhr, acidic clays and kaolin.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 969]**PEER REVIEWED**

Incompatibility: Strong oxidizers. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

... Incompatible with lime & ordinary soaps because acids & alkalies speed up processes of hydrolysis. /Pyrethrins/
[Farm Chemicals Handbook 1986. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister Publishing Co., 1986.,p. C-198]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Hazardous Decomposition:

When heated to decomp it emits toxic fumes of /nitrogen oxides/.
[Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1984. 2538]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Protective Equipment & Clothing:

Employees should be provided with and required to use dust- and splash-proof safety goggles where /pyrethroids/ ... may contact the eyes. /Pyrethroids/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 3]**PEER REVIEWED**

Employees should be provided with and be required to use impervious clothing, gloves, and face shields (eight-inch minimum). /Pyrethroids/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 2]**PEER REVIEWED**

Wear appropriate equipment to prevent: Repeated or prolonged skin contact. /Pyrethrum and pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Wear eye protection to prevent: Reasonable probability of eye contact. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Recommendations for respirator selection. Max concn for use: 50 mg/cu m: Respirator Classes: Any chemical cartridge respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s) in combination with a dust, mist, and fume filter. May require eye protection. Any supplied-air respirator. May require eye protection. Any self-contained breathing apparatus. May require eye protection. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Recommendations for respirator selection. Max concn for use: 125 mg/cu m: Respirator Classes: Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous flow mode. May require eye protection. Any powered, air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s) in combination with a dust, mist, and fume filter. May require eye protection. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Recommendations for respirator selection. Max concn for use: 250 mg/cu m: Respirator Classes: Any chemical cartridge respirator with a full facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s) in combination with a high-efficiency particulate filter. Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece. Any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece. Any powered, air-purifying respirator with a tight-fitting facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s) in combination with a high-efficiency particulate filter. May require eye protection. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Recommendations for respirator selection. Max concn for use: 5,000 mg/cu m: Respirator Class: Any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece and operated in a pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Recommendations for respirator selection. Condition: Emergency or planned entry into unknown concn or IDLH conditions: Respirator Classes: Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode. Any supplied-air respirator with a full face piece and operated in pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained breathing apparatus operated in pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Recommendations for respirator selection. Condition: Escape from suddenly occurring respiratory hazards: Respirator Classes: Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister having a high-efficiency particulate filter. Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Preventive Measures:

Skin that becomes contaminated with /pyrethrum/ should be promptly washed or showered with soap or mild detergent and water. /Pyrethrum/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 3]**PEER REVIEWED**

Clothing contaminated with /pyrethrum/ should be placed in closed containers for storage until provision is made for the removal of /pyrethrum/ from the clothing. /Pyrethrum/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 2]**PEER REVIEWED**

Respirators may be used when engineering and work practice controls are not technically feasible, when such controls are in the process of being installed, or when they fail or need to be supplemented. Respirators may also be used for operations which require entry into tanks or closed vessels, and in emergency situations. /Pyrethrum/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 2]**PEER REVIEWED**

Employees who handle /pyrethrum/ ... should wash their hands thoroughly with soap or mild detergent and water before eating, smoking, or using toilet facilities. /Pyrethrum/
[Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981. 3]**PEER REVIEWED**

Avoid contact with skin. Keep out of any body of water. Do not contaminate water by cleaning of equipment or disposal of waste. Do not reuse empty container. Destroy it by perforating or crushing. /Pyrethrum/
[Farm Chemicals Handbook 1986. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister Publishing Co., 1986.,p. C-198]**PEER REVIEWED**

Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Workers should wash: Promptly when skin becomes contaminated. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Work clothing should be changed daily: If it is reasonably probable that the clothing may be contaminated. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

Remove clothing: Promptly if it is non-impervious clothing that becomes contaminated. /Pyrethrins/
[NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 90-117. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, June 1990 190]**PEER REVIEWED**

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.
**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Stability/Shelf Life:

Stable under normal storage and use.
[Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982. 549]**PEER REVIEWED**

Sensitive to alkalis and strong acids. Stable on storage up to ca 50 deg C. Stable in ketones, chloroform, xylene, common aerosol propellant. Variable stability with inorganic carriers.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium. 10th ed. Surrey, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1994. 968]**PEER REVIEWED**

Pyrethrins ... /are/ stable for long periods in water-based aerosols where ... emulsifiers give neutral water systems. /Pyrethrins/
[Farm Chemicals Handbook 1986. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister Publishing Co., 1986.,p. C-198]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Storage Conditions:

Ventilate well. Store in closed drum in a cool, dry place.
[Farm Chemicals Handbook 1991. Willoughby, OH: Meister, 1991.,p. C300]**PEER REVIEWED**

Pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide topical preparations should be stored in well-closed containers at a temperature less than 40 deg C, preferably between 15-30 deg C. /Pyrethrins/
[McEvoy, G.K. (ed.). American Hospital Formulary Service - Drug Information 2000.Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. 2000 (Plus Supplements). 3203]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Cleanup Methods:

Spillages of pesticides at any stage of their storage or handling should be treated with great care. Liquid formulations may be reduced to solid phase by evaporation. Dry sweeping of solids is always hazardous: these should be removed by vacuum cleaning, or by dissolving them in water, or other solvent in the factory environment. /Pesticides/
[International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983. 1619]**PEER REVIEWED**

 

Disposal Methods:

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.
**PEER REVIEWED**

Treatment and disposal methods: Open burning. Burn tetramethrin in a shallow depression well away from any buildings, animals, or susceptible vegetation. Recommendable methods: Incineration, ... . Peer review: Small amounts: Only well diluted discharge to sewer. Large amounts: Incinerate in a unit with effluent gas scrubbing. (Peer review conclusions of an IRPTC expert consultation May 1985).
[United Nations. Treatment and Disposal Methods for Waste Chemicals (IRPTC File). Data Profile Series No. 5. Geneva, Switzerland: United Nations Environmental Programme, Dec. 1985. 158]**PEER REVIEWED**

Incineration would be an effective disposal procedure where permitted. ... /Pyrethrin products/
[Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 1985. 2nd ed. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Data Corporation, 1985. 762]**PEER REVIEWED**

Occupational Exposure Standards:

Manufacturing/Use Information:

Major Uses:

For Tetramethrin (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 069003) ACTIVE products with label matches. /SRP: Registered for use in the U.S. but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Tetramethrin (7696-12-0). Available from the Database Query page at http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/epa/epamenu.htm as of February 5, 2001.]**PEER REVIEWED**

Insecticide
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996. 1576]**PEER REVIEWED**

MEDICATION
**PEER REVIEWED**

Methods of Manufacturing:

N-hydroxymethyl-3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide + (1RS)-cis/trans-chrysanthemic acid (esterification)
[Ashford, R.D. Ashford's Dictionary of Industrial Chemicals. London, England: Wavelength Publications Ltd., 1994. 877]**PEER REVIEWED**

General Manufacturing Information:

Available commercially as the racemic of (1R)-enriched product.
[Ashford, R.D. Ashford's Dictionary of Industrial Chemicals. London, England: Wavelength Publications Ltd., 1994. 877]**PEER REVIEWED**

Synthetic pyrethroid compound developed in Japan.
[Farm Chemicals Handbook 2000. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister 2000.,p. C 379]**PEER REVIEWED**

It is a mixture of four stereoisomers. The cis:trans ratio is reported to be 1:4 and optical ratio of 1R:1S is 1:1 (racemic). Thus its composition is roughly 4:1:4:1 for the (1R,trans), (1R,cis), (1S,trans) and (1S,cis) isomers. The (1R,trans])isomer is the most active biologically of the isomers, followed by the [1R,cis] isomer. Neo-Pynamin Forte is a mixture of the (1R,cis,) and (1R,trans) isomers in the ratio of 1:4.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 98: Tetramethrin p.21 (1990)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Potent synthetic pyrethroid insecticide.
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996. 1576]**PEER REVIEWED**

The commercial product is a mixture of isomers.
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996. 1576]**PEER REVIEWED**

Normally used in combination with synergists (eg piperonyl butoxide) and other insecticides.
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

/Pyrethroids/ are modern synthetic insecticides similar chemically to natural pyrethrins, but modified to increase stability in the natural environment. /Pyrethroids/
[Morgan DP; Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings. 4th ed. p.34 EPA 540/9-88-001. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, March 1989]**PEER REVIEWED**

Formulations/Preparations:

USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code 069003; Trade Names: Neopynamin, Phthalthrin, Evercide intermediate 2265 (069330+109301), ENT-27339.
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Tetramethrin (7696-12-0). Available from the Database Query page at http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/epa/epamenu.htm as of February 5, 2001.]**PEER REVIEWED**

Aerosol, oil liquid, emulsifiable concentrate.
[Farm Chemicals Handbook 2000. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister 2000.,p. C 379]**PEER REVIEWED**

Technical material 85% active ingredient. ... Oil based and water based sprays as well as aerosol sprays made up of tetramethrin in combination with piperonyl butoxide, resmethrin, methylated naphthalenes.
[Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982. 549]**PEER REVIEWED**

Aerosol dispenser; emulsidiable concentrate; dustable powder; ultra-low volume liquid; oil; emulsion, oil in water
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

Mixtures: (tetramethrin +) resmethrin, fenitrothion; piperonyl butoxide + pyrethrins; piperonyl butoxide + resmethrin; phenothrin; permethrin; piperonyl butoxide; fenitrothion + lindane; permethrin + piperonyl butoxide
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

Tech. is 92% pure
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

Laboratory Methods:

Analytic Laboratory Methods:

EAD Method 1660. The Determination of Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids in Municipal and Industrial Wastewater by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Detection limit = 2.000 ug/l.
[USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1. PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)]**PEER REVIEWED**

EPA-B Method PMD-TFK. Determination of Tetramethrin and d-Phenothrin by Internal Standard Gas Chromatography.
[USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1. PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)]**PEER REVIEWED**

FDA Method 212.1. Organochlorine Residues (Nonionic) General Method for Nonfatty Foods Including Acetonitrile Extraction, Water/Acetonitrile Extraction, Aqueous Acetonitrile to Petroleum Ether Transfer, and Florisil Column Cleanup.
[USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1. PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)]**PEER REVIEWED**

... Liquid chromatography method has been developed to quantitate pyrethrins in pesticide formulations. ... Detection was monitored at 240 nm. ... Percent coefficients of variation ranged from 1.39 to 9.68 with the majority less than 5.00. ... /Pyrethrins/
[Bushway RJ; J Assoc Off Anal Chem 68 (6): 1134-6 (1985)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Pyrethrins were detected in soils by gas chromatography after extraction with hexane. /Pyrethrins/
[Siltanen H et al; Ryrethrum Post 14 (3): 65-7 (1978)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Low level pyrethrin formulations are extracted with tetrahydrofuran and determined via capillary gas chromatography with electron capture detection. ... Analysis of 5 formulations gave an average standard deviation of 3.3%. /Pyrethrins/
[Stringham RW, Schutz RP; J Assoc Off Anal Chem 68 (6): 1137-9 (1985)]**PEER REVIEWED**

Special References:

Special Reports:

Miyamoto J; Environ Health Perspect 14: 15-28 (1976). Degradation, metabolism, and toxicity of synthetic pyrethroids.

Miyamoto J, et al; Pure Appl Chem 53: 1967-2022 (1981). The chemistry, metabolism, and residue analysis of synthetic pyrethroids.

Hutson DH; Progress in Drug Metabolism 3: 215-252 (1979). The metabolic fate of synthetic pyrethroid insecticides in mammals.

Casida JE et al; Ann Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 23: 413-38 (1983). The mechanisms of selective action of pyrethroid insecticide are discussed.

Papadopoulou-Mourkidou E; Residue Rev 89: 179-208 (1983). A review with many references on analysis of allethrin & other pyrethroid insecticides.

Synonyms and Identifiers:

Synonyms:

N-(chrysanthemoxymethyl)-1-cyclohexene-1,2-dicarboximide
**PEER REVIEWED**

Cyclohex-1-ene-1,2-dicarboximidomethyl (1RS)-cis,trans-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2- methylprop-1-enyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate
**PEER REVIEWED**

1-cyclohexene-1,2-dicarboximidomethyl-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylpropenyl) cyclopropane carboxylate
**PEER REVIEWED**

2,2-Dimethyl-3-(2-methyl-1-propenyl) cyclopropanecarboxylic acid (1,3,4,5,6,7- hexahydro-1,3-dioxo-2H-isoindol-2-yl)methyl ester
**PEER REVIEWED**

2,2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylpropenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid ester with N-(hydroxymethyl)-1-cyclohexene-1,2-dicarboximide
**PEER REVIEWED**

Pesticide Code 069003
**PEER REVIEWED**

FMC-9260
**PEER REVIEWED**

(1,3,4,5,6,7-hexahydro-1,3-dioxo-2H-isoindol-2-yl) methyl 2,2-dimethyl-3-(2- methyl-1-propenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylate.
**PEER REVIEWED**

Neopynamin
**PEER REVIEWED**

Phthalthrin
**PEER REVIEWED**

Py-kill
**PEER REVIEWED**

SP 1103
**PEER REVIEWED**

N-(3,4,5,6-tetrahydrophthalimide)methyl-cis, trans-chrysanthemate
**PEER REVIEWED**

3,4,5,6-Tetrahydrophthalimidomethyl (+)-cis,trans-chrysanthemate
**PEER REVIEWED**

Tetramethrine
**PEER REVIEWED**

Weo-Pynamin
**PEER REVIEWED**

Formulations/Preparations:

USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code 069003; Trade Names: Neopynamin, Phthalthrin, Evercide intermediate 2265 (069330+109301), ENT-27339.
[U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Tetramethrin (7696-12-0). Available from the Database Query page at http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/epa/epamenu.htm as of February 5, 2001.]**PEER REVIEWED**

Aerosol, oil liquid, emulsifiable concentrate.
[Farm Chemicals Handbook 2000. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister 2000.,p. C 379]**PEER REVIEWED**

Technical material 85% active ingredient. ... Oil based and water based sprays as well as aerosol sprays made up of tetramethrin in combination with piperonyl butoxide, resmethrin, methylated naphthalenes.
[Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982. 549]**PEER REVIEWED**

Aerosol dispenser; emulsidiable concentrate; dustable powder; ultra-low volume liquid; oil; emulsion, oil in water
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

Mixtures: (tetramethrin +) resmethrin, fenitrothion; piperonyl butoxide + pyrethrins; piperonyl butoxide + resmethrin; phenothrin; permethrin; piperonyl butoxide; fenitrothion + lindane; permethrin + piperonyl butoxide
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

Tech. is 92% pure
[Tomlin, C.D.S. (ed.). The Pesticide Manual - World Compendium, 11 th ed., British Crop Protection Council, Surrey, England 1997 1179]**PEER REVIEWED**

Administrative Information:

Hazardous Substances Databank Number: 6738
Last Revision Date: 20011010
Last Review Date: Reviewed by SRP on 5/10/2001
Update History:

Complete Update on 10/10/2001, 50 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 08/08/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 05/16/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/12/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/12/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/13/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/08/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/02/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/21/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/27/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/08/1999, 5 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 06/03/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 11/01/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 05/09/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/17/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/28/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 10/20/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/06/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 05/14/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/01/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/21/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 03/01/1994, 49 fields added/edited/deleted.

Record Length: 118638