Deltamethrin

Agrochemicals -> Pesticide active substances

Active substance -> EU Pesticides database: Approved

Pesticides -> Pyrethrins/Pyrethroids

Insecticides, Transformation products

Pesticide

Environmental transformation -> Pesticides (parent, predecessor)

log Kow = 6.20

6.20

5.43

5.52

Crystals

Crystalline powder, almost white

White or slightly beige powder

Solubility; in cyclohexanone 750, dichloromethane 700, acetone 500, benzene 450, dimethyl sulphoxide 450, xylene 250, isopropanol 6 (all in g/L at 20 °C)

In water, <0.002 mg/L at 25 °C

2e-06 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water at 20 °C: none

Half life of 2.5 days (pH 9, 25 °C)

When heated to decomp it emits toxic fumes of /bromide ion, cyanide ion, nitrogen oxides/.

Hazardous Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide. /Deltaguard G Insecticide/

90 °C

MP: 98-101 °C

100 °C

98-101 °C

Danger

H301: Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

P261, P264, P270, P271, P273, P301+P316, P304+P340, P316, P321, P330, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.2% (1 of 401) of reports.

Danger

H300 (27.4%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

Hazard Traits - Developmental Toxicity; Endocrine Toxicity; Environmental tox; Neurotoxicity; Reproductive Toxicity

Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 (amended)

Deltamethrin is listed in the dataset of EPA Human Health Benchmarks for Pesticides under the Safe Drinking Water Act (40 eCFR 141)

03/5/EC, Reg. (EU) 2016/950, Reg. (EU) 2017/1511, Reg. (EU) 2018/1262, Reg. (EU) 2019/1589, Reg. (EU) 2020/1511, Reg. (EU) 2021/1449, Reg. (EU) 2022/1480, Reg. (EU) 2023/1757, Reg. (EU) 2024/1734, Reg. (EU) No 540/2011, Reg. (EU) No 823/2012

Deltamethrin: HSNO Approval: HSR003288 Approved with controls

A skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant; May cause facial sensation of tingling, itching, or burning; [ICSC] A severe irritant; Can be absorbed through skin; May cause skin and respiratory sensitization after prolonged contact; Effects in high-dose animal studies include convulsions; [MSDSonline] See Cypermethrin.

National Poisons Information Service; UKPID Monograph - Deltamethrin. This monograph was commissioned and funded by the UK Departments of Health, and was designed as a source of detailed information for use by poisons information centers.[]

WHO; Health and Safety Guide No. 30 Deltamethrin. This is a companion volume to Environmental Health Criteria 97: Deltamethrin.[Available from, as of February 16, 2011: http://www.inchem.org/documents/hsg/hsg/hsg030.htm]

U.S. Dept Health & Human Services/Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry; Toxicological Profile for Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids (2003). The ATSDR toxicological profile succinctly characterizes the toxicologic and adverse health effects information for a hazardous substance.[Available from, as of February 16, 2011: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp155.pdf]

WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 97: Deltamethrin (1990). EHC are designed for scientists and administrators responsible for the establishment of safety standards and regulations and provide basic scientific risk evaluations of a wide range of chemicals and groups of chemicals.[Available from, as of February 16, 2011: http://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc97.htm]

Tolerances are established for the combined residues of the pesticide chemical deltamethrin [(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid ( S )- alpha -cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl ester and its major metabolites, trans deltamethrin [( S )- alpha -cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate] and alpha-R -deltamethrin [( R )- alpha -cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl-(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate] in or on the following agricultural commodities: [Table#6108]

A tolerance ... is established for residues of the insecticide deltamethrin (1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid ( S )-alpha-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl ester and its major metabolites, trans deltamethrin ( S )-alpha-cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl-(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and alpha- R -deltamethrin[( R )-alpha-cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl-(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate] as follows: (i) In or on all food/feed items (other than those covered by a higher tolerance as a result of use on growing crops) in food/feed handling establishments. (ii) The insecticide may be present as a residue from application of deltamethrin in food handling establishments, including food service, manufacturing and processing establishments, such as restaurants, cafeterias, supermarkets, bakeries, breweries, dairies, meat slaughtering and packing plants, and canneries, feed handling establishments including feed manufacturing and processing establishments, in accordance with the following prescribed conditions: (A) Application shall be limited to general surface and spot and/or crack and crevice treatment in food/feed handling establishments where food/feed and food/feed products are held, processed, prepared and served. General surface application may be used only when the facility is not in operation provided exposed food/feed has been covered or removed from the area being treated. Spot and/or crack and crevice application may be used while the facility is in operation provided exposed food/feed is covered or removed from the area being treated prior to application. Spray concentration shall be limited to a maximum of 0.06 percent active ingredient. Contamination of food/feed or food/feed contact surfaces shall be avoided. (B) To assure safe use of the insecticide, its label and labeling shall conform to that registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and shall be used in accordance with such label and labeling.

New Active Ingredients ... includes chemicals not previously registered as pesticides, as well as pesticide active ingredients initially registered after November 1, 1984 and that currently have active product registrations. By law, these pesticides must meet new safety standards, such as those described in the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 and, if new safety standards are met, will be reviewed again on a 15-year cycle. Deltamethrin is designated by EPA as a New Pesticide Active Ingredient. Active Ingredient Number: 097805; Type of Pesticide: conventional - insecticide; Use Site: food use, ornamentals, animals, pets; Year: 1994.

Outbreaks of acute deltamethrin & fenvalerate poisoning occurred in cotton growers in China in 1982-84. The farmers handled the pyrethroid insecticides without taking any precautions. Skin sensations occurred in >90% of the exposed workers. After repeated spraying in the cotton fields, the mild cases presented severe headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, & anorexia, with transient changes in the EEG. A severe case developed muscular fasciculation, repetitive discharges in the EMG, & frequent convulsions, which were treated with diazepam & phenobarbital. However, in follow-up studies, all workers were found to have made complete recovery, & the prognosis of acute pyrethroid poisoning was found to be good.

Fresh air, rest. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Keep out of smoke. Fight fire from upwind position. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Do not allow run-off from fire fighting to enter drains or water courses. Firefighters should wear NIOSH approved self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

Suitable Extinguishing Media: Carbon dioxide (CO2), Dry chemical, Foam, Water /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

Pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide topical preparations should be stored in well-closed containers at a temperature less than 40 °C, preferably between 15-30 °C. /Pyrethrins/

Store technical material and formulations away from heat in a locked area, designated for pesticide storage only. Keep out of reach of children, unauthorized personnel, and animals, and away from food and animal feed. Prevent spills from leaking into watercourses.

Do NOT wash away into sewer. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into containers; if appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder, then remove to safe place. Personal protection: A/P2 filter respirator for organic vapor and harmful dust.

Keep spectators away from leaking or spilled product. Prohibit smoking and the use of naked flames in the immediate vicinity. Transfer any product remaining in damaged or leaking containers into a clean, empty drum, and label the drum. Absorb spillage and cover contaminated areas with lime, damp sawdust, sand, earth, or other absorbent material and place in a secure container for safe disposal (see below). Contain a large spillage by a barrier of earth or sandbags. Prevent liquid from spreading to other cargo, vegetation, or waterways. Decontaminate empty, damaged, or leaking containers with a 10% sodium carbonate solution added at the rate of at least 1 liter per 20-liter drum. Puncture containers to prevent reuse.

Clean contaminated floors and objects thoroughly, observing environmental regulations. Collect and transfer the product into a properly labelled and tightly closed container. Decontaminate tools and equipment following cleanup. Contaminated soil may have to be removed and disposed. /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Do not contaminate water, food, or feed by disposal. Pesticide, spray mixture or rinse water that cannot be used according to label instructions may be disposed of on site or at an approved waste disposal facility. Dispose in accordance with all local, state/provincial and federal regulations. /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

Container Disposal: Completely empty container into application equipment, then dispose of empty container in a sanitary landfill, by incineration or by other procedures approved by state/provincial and local authorities. If burned, stay out of smoke. /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

Incineration would be an effective disposal procedure where permitted. ... /Pyrethrin products/

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Wear long-sleeved shirt and long pants and shoes plus socks. /Deltaguard G Insecicide Granule/

Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling and before eating, drinking, chewing gum, using tobacco, using the toilet or applying cosmetics. /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

Handle and open container in a manner as to prevent spillage. Maintain exposure levels below the exposure limit through the use of general and local exhaust ventilation. /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

Remove soiled clothing immediately and clean thoroughly before using again. Wash thoroughly and put on clean clothing. /Deltaguard G Insecticide Granule/

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Pyrethroids (permethrin, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin and deltamethrin) were found in the breastmilk of nursing mothers in 3 South African towns. Average levels in breastmilk ranged from 8.3 to 48.4 mcg/L in the 3 towns. The source was thought to be from a dusting powder widely available and used in gardening. The dosage and route of exposure (i.e., topical, inhalation, oral) could not be determined. All milk levels were below the allowable daily limit for permethrin.

Urine concentrations of deltamethrin of workers spraying deltamethrin insecticide on cotton was 0.01-1.79 ug/collection interval (3-12 hr) for a period up to 72 hr after spraying(1).

Following oral exposure, the 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. Following inhalation exposure, 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 inhaled beta2 agonist and oral or parenteral corticosteroids. In case of eye exposure, irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of room temperature water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, the patient should be seen in a health care facility. If the contamination occurs through dermal exposure, 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. Vitamin E topical application is highly effective in relieving parenthesis. (L363)

Deltamethrin was hydrolysed in vitro by esterases in blood, brain, kidney, liver, and stomach preparations of mice. Pretreatment of mice with the oxidase inhibitor, piperonyl butoxide (PBO), or the esterase inhibitor, S,S,S-tributylphosphorotrithoiate (DEF), delayed metabolism of intraperitoneally administered deltamethrin. PBO or DEF made mice more sensitive to deltamethrin.

... Sprague-Dawley rats ... /in/ Group A received cottonseed oil as control, and Groups B, C and D received deltamethrin (DM); DM and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT); and DM, DDT, phytoestrogens and p-nonylphenol, respectively. Rats were exposed in utero and then received the substances for 10 weeks. The seminal vesicle mass (Group B; P = 0.046) and sperm count [Groups C (P = 0.013) and D (P = 0.003)] were lower and the anogenital distance [Group B (P = 0.047) C (P = 0.045) and D (P = 0.002)] shorter compared with the control group. The seminiferous tubule diameter [Groups B (P = <0.001), C (P = <0.001) and D (P = <0.001)] and epithelium thickness [Groups B (P = 0.030), C (P = <0.001) and D (P = <0.001)] were smaller compared with the control. The histology of the testes showed signs of apical sloughing and vacuolization. Liver weights [Groups C (P = 0.013) and D (P = 0.005)] and liver enzymes [Group D (P = 0.013)] were also affected. These findings may indicate that simultaneous exposure to endocrine disrupting compounds contributes to the deterioration observed in male reproductive health.

Plasma esterases, in addition to hepatic esterases, play a role in the metabolism of deltamethrin in mammals and cause its rapid detoxification by the oral route. In a potentiation study, a range of esterase inhibitors, consisting mainly of organophosphorus insecticides, was given to male rats in oral doses that inhibited 50% of the plasma cholinesterase. After 15 min, or 2 or 24 hr, an oral LD50 dose of deltamethrin EC formulation was given which showed potentiation with azinphos ethyl, omethoate, and dichlorvos. It appears that users must handle deltamethrin in these combinations very carefully because of their high toxicity. Acephate, monocrotophos, phosphamidon, parathion methyl, and the 2 controls did not act as potentiators.

The effect of deltamethrin pretreatment on the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of antipyrine was studied in male rats. The total plasma clearance of antipyrine was significantly decreased by deltamethrin pretreatment (20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg daily for 6 days prior to antipyrine administration), while the elimination half-life at beta phase, the area under the concentration-time curve and the mean residence time of antipyrine were significantly increased. The magnitude of the observed changes was dose dependent. The urinary excretion of norantipyrine, 4-hydroxyantipyrine and 3-hydroxymethylantipyrine was decreased by 39%, 32% and 26%, respectively (p <0.001) in the presence of deltamethrin. In addition, the rate constants for formation of each of these metabolites were significantly decreased by an average of approximately 71%. These results suggest that deltamethrin is capable of inhibiting oxidative metabolism, a finding which could be of clinical and toxicological significance.

For more Interactions (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

At high doses, signs of poisoning attributable to deltamethrin include profuse salivation and pulmonary edema, clonic seizures, opisthotonos (i.e., the spine is bent forward such that a supine body rests on its head and heels), coma, and death. At lower doses, commonly observed effects include paresthesia and erythema (L863).

LC50; Species: Rhodeus sericeus amarus; Conditions: static; Concentration: 1.12 ug/L for 96 hr

LC50; Species: Salmo salar; Concentration: 1.97 ug/L for 96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/

LC50; Species: Sarotherodon mossambicuse; Conditions: flow system, static conditions; Concentration: 3.5 ug/L for 96 hr

LD50; Species: Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard duck) oral >4640 mg/kg

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (74 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an experimental Koc range from 79,000 to 16,300,000(2-4) indicates that deltamethrin is expected to be immobile in soil(SRC). Volatilization of deltamethrin from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), determined from its vapor pressure, 9.3X10-11(2), and water solubility, <2X10-3 mg/L(2). Deltamethrin is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(2). Biodegradation is expected to be an important environmental fate process for deltamethrin. Laboratory and field studies measured deltamethrin soil half-lives of 4.9-6.9 weeks in a sandy clay loam soil(5).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values of 79,000 to 16,300,000(2-4), indicate that deltamethrin is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(5) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mol (SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 9.3X10-11 mm Hg(2), and water solubility, <2X10-3 mg/L(2). Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 17 days and 130 days, respectively(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 130 years if adsorption is considered(6). A field study involving 4 prairie ponds in Saskatchewan, Canada and aerial spraying found deltamethrin half-lives of 0.6-5 hr in the surface-film formed by the spraying and an avg half-life of 14-hr in the subsurface water(7); degradation products included a cyclopropyl acid derivative and phenoxybenzoic acid(7). Fresh water mesocosm were sprayed with deltamethrin; water residuals dissipated in 96 hours, deltamethrin was detected in macrophyte up to 5 weeks after application, was never detected in the sediment, and was detected in gastropods only at the 24 hour post treatment sampling(8). According to a classification scheme(9), log BCFs of 2.62 and 2.7 reported in Onchorynchus mykiss (rainbow trout)(10), suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high(SRC). Based on an activated sludge screening test where deltamethrin was degraded 51.4% after 3 hours, 59.8% after 6 hours and 63.4% after 9 hours, from a starting concentration of 50 ug/L, biodegradation may be expected in aqueous environments(11). Deltamethrin was found to be stable to hydrolysis at pH 5 and 7, and had a half-life of 2.5 days at pH 9(12). The photodegradation half-life of deltamethrin in distilled and natural water solutions exposed to sunlight was found to range from 1 to <5 days(13).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), deltamethrin, which has a vapor pressure of 9.3X10-11 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely in the particulate phase in the ambient atmosphere. Particulate-phase deltamethrin may be removed from the air by wet or dry deposition(SRC).

The Canadian National Surveillance Program analyzed 598 food samples in 1984-1989(1); 3 samples contained deltamethrin residues (2 of 25 samples of apples and 1 of 21 samples of strawberries) at levels of 0.004-0.006 mg/kg(1). Deltamethrin concentrations were measured by means of capillary gas chromatography using extraction with ethyl acetate and dichloromethane from vegetable and fruit samples(2). Deltamethrin concentrations ranged from 69.4 to 98.6 ppm for those samples measured with ethyl acetate extraction(2), while concentrations ranged from 64.1 to 88.5 ppm for those samples measured with dichloromethane extraction(2). Deltamethrin residues were detected at concentrations ranging from non-detectable to 0.23 mg/kg in laboratory pressed olive oil samples in Italy(3). Agricultural products monitored in Prefecture, Japan from April 1995 to March 2000, found deltamethrin in 8 of 91 imported banana samples at concentrations of <0.05 ug/g, but was not detected in any of the other 674 products sampled(4). Deltamethrin was not detected (detection limit 0.006 mg/kg) in 130 commercial egg samples taken from Sao Paulo City, Brazil from Oct 2003 to July 2005(5). Of 2223 samples (700 vegetables, 1523 fruits) taken Jan 1994 thru Dec 2001, deltamethrin was only detected in one spice sample at 0.78 mg/kg(6). Of 173 agricultural products analyzed in 2006 in Japan, five were reported to contain deltamethrin at 2.4-18.3 ng/g(7). Deltamethrin was not detected in 270 apple and citrus fruit samples taken 1999 to 2001 in Karachi, Pakistan(8). Deltamethrin was detected in carrot, ginger, potato, radish, turnip, Brassica leaves, spinach, pumpkin, peas and tomato but not detected in garlic, onion, sugar beet, coriander, methi, mint, salad brinjal, bitter gourd, chillies, french beans, Indian squash, cucumber, Lady's fingers, luffa, cabbage and cauliflower, in a study conducted in Karachi, Pakistan 2000 to 2003(9).

Fruit and vegetable samples collected in Pakistan were tested for pesticide residues by means of gas and thin-layer chromatography for a study period of July 1988 to June 1990, Dec 1990 to June 1991 and Sept 1992(1). Deltamethrin was detected at 0.13 mg/kg in one of 16 cucumber and at 1.12-1.7 mg/kg in two of 12 bitter gourd, but was not detected in luffa, pumpkin, cauliflower, spinach, white gourd, coriander, fenugreek, lettuce, aubergine, onion, turnip, sweet potato, tomato, Lady's finger, cabbage, potato, green pepper, capsicum, mint, dill, beet sugar, carrot, radish, garlic, peas, french beans, mustard, ginger, arum, gourd, cow pea, lambs quarter, radish seeds, parsley, long cucumber, green peas, lemon, cluster bean, mango, peach, apple, persimmon, banana, pomegranate, grapes, musk melon, orange, grapefruit, papaya, guava, sapota, Ziziphus, cherry, plum, apricot, pear, dates, watermelon, sugar cane or cheeko(1). Deltamethrin was analyzed in 397 samples collected in 8 local markets from 6 Egyptian governorates (Cairo, Giza, Qualubiya, Beni Suef, Minufiya and Ismailia) in 1995 and was reported not detected in cabbage, cauliflower, carrot, courgette, cucumber, eggplant, green beans, green peas, lettuce, onion, pepper, tomato, apple, cantaloupe, grape, guava, mango, orange, peach or strawberry(2). Deltamethrin was also analyzed in 1579 samples collected in the same Egyptian governorates in 1996 and was not detected in cabbage, grape leaf, lettuce, melokhia, spinach, watercress, artichoke, broad bean, cauliflower, cantaloupe, cucumber, eggplant, green beans, green peas, okra, onion, pepper, squash, tomato, carrot, sweet potato, taro, apple, apricot, banana, dates, fig, grape, guava, lemon, lime, mango, orange, peach, pear, plum, pomegranate or strawberry(3). Deltamethrin was detected in 1 of 61 iceberg head lettuce samples tested in 1996, reported from the Danish National Pesticide Monitoring Program 1995 and 1996(4). Deltamethrin was not detected in grapefruit, apple, pear, quince, strawberry, elderberry, red current, pomegranate, lemon, apricot, cherries, peach, blackberry, raspberry, black current, beet root, radish, mandarin/clementine, nectarine, hip, rowanberry, gooseberry, kiwi, carrot, parsley root, orange, plum grape, boysenberry, bilberry, banana, fig, celeriac, horseradish, parsnip, parsley root, garlic, onion, spring onion, tomato, pepper, eggplant, cucumber, melon, watermelon, squash, sweet corn, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprout, white cabbage, red cabbage, spring cabbage, Oxheart cabbage, Chinese cabbage, kale, iceberg head lettuce (1995), spinach, chive, dill, marjoram, oregano, parsley, rosemary, thyme, fresh bean with pod, fresh pea with pod, celery, leek, rhubarb, mushroom, dried bean, sunflower seed or potato from the same program(4).

Fruits (802) and vegetables (1536) collected by the food inspection branch from farms, food terminals, warehouses and points of consumer purchase in Ontario, Canada 1991 to 1995 had two reported detections of deltamethrin at <0.05 ug/g(1). Deltamethrin was analyzed but not detected (0.08 ppm detection limit) in pears (710 domestic, 949 imported) and tomatoes (1219 domestic, 144 imported) as part of the US Food and Drug Administration Pesticide Program from 1992 thru 1993(2). As part of the same program, apples (769 domestic, 1062 imported) and rice (598 domestic, 612 imported) were also analyzed for deltamethrin from 1993 thru 1994, two of the 612 imported rice samples tested positive at <1 ppm (0.07 ppm detection limit)(3). Deltamethrin was not detected (0.013 mg/kg detection limit) in 50 ground beef samples from area markets of Rome, Italy, samples were collected in 2005(4).

Deltamethrin was applied to jute sacks containing cowpea or lentils (seeds obtained from New Delhi) at 15 or 25 mg/sq m to test seed contamination with the following results(1);

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

Inhalation (L857) ; oral (L857) ; dermal (L857) ; eye contact (L857).

ENVIRONMENTAL: Pyrethroids (permethrin, cyfluthrin, cypermethrin and deltamethrin) were found in the breastmilk of nursing mothers in 3 South African towns. Average levels in breastmilk ranged from 8.3 to 48.4 mcg/L in the 3 towns. The source was thought to be from a dusting powder widely available and used in gardening. The dosage and route of exposure (i.e., topical, inhalation, oral) could not be determined. All milk levels were below the allowable daily limit for permethrin.

Both type I and type II pyrethroids exert their effect by prolonging the open phase of the sodium channel gates when a nerve cell is excited. They appear to bind to the membrane lipid phase in the immediate vicinity of the sodium channel, thus modifying the channel kinetics. This blocks the closing of the sodium gates in the nerves, and thus prolongs the return of the membrane potential to its resting state. The repetitive (sensory, motor) neuronal discharge and a prolonged negative afterpotential produces effects quite similar to those produced by DDT, leading to hyperactivity of the nervous system which can result in paralysis and/or death. Other mechanisms of action of pyrethroids include antagonism of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated inhibition, modulation of nicotinic cholinergic transmission, enhancement of noradrenaline release, and actions on calcium ions. They also inhibit calium channels and Ca2+, Mg2+-ATPase. (T10, T18, L857)

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ In this study, the chronic effects of ... deltamethrin on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were examined in the brain of tench /Tinca tinca (freshwater fish)/. ... Animals were exposed in a continuous flow-system to three different concentrations of ... deltamethrin (0, 0.0039 and 0.039 ug/L) for 60 days. After that period, animals were kept into pesticide-free water for other 30 days. In all cases, animals were sampled every 10 days. ... With respect to deltamethrin exposure, AChE activity was not significantly affected. When considering MDA levels, significant changes could only be detected during the recovery period ..., with a maximum of induction at ... 80 days ... /at/ the highest dose ... . Similarly, GSH levels /showed/ ... a maximum ... increase at day 80 ... .

/AQUATIC SPECIES/... The acute toxicity of deltamethrin ... has been tested for Gammarus fossarum and Gammarus pulex (Crustacea, Amphipoda) to document the inter- and intra-specific variability at different developmental stages. Adult G. fossarum were about two-fold more sensitive to deltamethrin than adult G. pulex, 96-hr LC50 being 33.2 and 68.0 ng/L, respectively. However, in the same species, significant differences of sensitivity were observed between individuals from different locations. Furthermore, G. fossarum from certain localities were less sensitive to deltamethrin than certain G. pulex. In addition, juveniles of both species were about 14- to 22-fold more sensitive to deltamethrin than adults: 48-hr LC50 in G. fossarum and G. pulex juveniles were 4.0 and 5.7 ng/L. Therefore, lethal effects of deltamethrin on Gammarus sp. populations likely depend more on juvenile response rather than on adult response... .

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ ... Deltamethrin was highly toxic to / Chironomus riparius /larvae in artificial sediments, with LC50-values (28 d) of 11 ug/kg for sediment-exposures and 16 pg/L for water-exposures. In contrast, deltamethrin-induced mortality was absent in experiments with natural sediment, both in spiked water and in spiked sediment. This was attributed to the higher organic matter content of the natural sediment, 12.5+/-0.05%, compared with that in the artificial sediments, 4.1-4.8%, resulting in an efficient and fast sorption and lower bioavailability. Deltamethrin degradation was absent in artificial sediment, while in natural sediment, 50% degraded during 10 days of test-vessel acclimation. Despite a faster degradation, the highest measured concentration in spiked-natural sediment was more than seven times higher than the LC50-value obtained in tests with spiked-artificial sediment, indicating that low bioavailability, and not compound degradation, was the main reason for the observed lack of deltamethrin toxicity.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/... Three different deltamethrin concentrations (0.25, 1, 2.5 ug/L) were administrated to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) at different time intervals (6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hr) ... to observe the influences of the pesticide on the activity of glutathione reductase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, 6-ghosphogluconate dehydrogenase, and the expression of Hsp70 gene. ... The activities of the enzymes decreased with increasing deltamethrin concentrations and exposure time. The pesticide had more inhibitory effects on gill enzymes than those of muscle, liver and kidney. In addition, ... deltamethrin increased the expression of the stress-related protein Hsp70 with significant fold-chance values. The efficiency rate was 96.4% which is equal to 1.96 calculated via conversion formula used to calculate fold-chance value.

For more Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Tolerances are established for the combined residues of the pesticide chemical deltamethrin [(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid ( S )- alpha -cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl ester and its major metabolites, trans deltamethrin [( S )- alpha -cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl(1R,3S)-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate] and alpha-R -deltamethrin [( R )- alpha -cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl-(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate] in or on the following agricultural commodities: [Table#6108]

A tolerance ... is established for residues of the insecticide deltamethrin (1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylic acid ( S )-alpha-cyano-3-phenoxybenzyl ester and its major metabolites, trans deltamethrin ( S )-alpha-cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl-(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate and alpha- R -deltamethrin[( R )-alpha-cyano- m -phenoxybenzyl-(1 R ,3 R )-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropanecarboxylate] as follows: (i) In or on all food/feed items (other than those covered by a higher tolerance as a result of use on growing crops) in food/feed handling establishments. (ii) The insecticide may be present as a residue from application of deltamethrin in food handling establishments, including food service, manufacturing and processing establishments, such as restaurants, cafeterias, supermarkets, bakeries, breweries, dairies, meat slaughtering and packing plants, and canneries, feed handling establishments including feed manufacturing and processing establishments, in accordance with the following prescribed conditions: (A) Application shall be limited to general surface and spot and/or crack and crevice treatment in food/feed handling establishments where food/feed and food/feed products are held, processed, prepared and served. General surface application may be used only when the facility is not in operation provided exposed food/feed has been covered or removed from the area being treated. Spot and/or crack and crevice application may be used while the facility is in operation provided exposed food/feed is covered or removed from the area being treated prior to application. Spray concentration shall be limited to a maximum of 0.06 percent active ingredient. Contamination of food/feed or food/feed contact surfaces shall be avoided. (B) To assure safe use of the insecticide, its label and labeling shall conform to that registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and shall be used in accordance with such label and labeling.

New Active Ingredients ... includes chemicals not previously registered as pesticides, as well as pesticide active ingredients initially registered after November 1, 1984 and that currently have active product registrations. By law, these pesticides must meet new safety standards, such as those described in the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 and, if new safety standards are met, will be reviewed again on a 15-year cycle. Deltamethrin is designated by EPA as a New Pesticide Active Ingredient. Active Ingredient Number: 097805; Type of Pesticide: conventional - insecticide; Use Site: food use, ornamentals, animals, pets; Year: 1994.

P - Antiparasitic products, insecticides and repellents

QP - Antiparasitic products, insecticides and repellents

The lowest concentration of deltamethrin to have an effect in crayfish stretch receptor neurons on sodium channels was 1X10-12 mol/L, but the response of the preparation to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) appeared to be unaffected by concentrations of deltamethrin up to 1X10-7 mol/L. Although 1X10-6 mol/l deltamethrin had a slight effect on the GABA response of the dactyl abductor muscle, it appears that the majority of the effects of cyano-pyrethroids in invertebrates could be accounted for solely by their action on sodium channels.

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. /Pyrethroids/

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 partial 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/

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/

For more Mechanism of Action (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Following intravenous administration, the distribution and elimination half-times were ... 1.39 and 33.0 hours for deltamethrin.

In rats administered deltamethrin and its metabolite (4-OH-deltamethrin) intravenously, elimination half-times were 33 and 25 hours, respectively.

Deltamethrin has a half-life in rat brain of 1-2 days, but it is rather more persistent in body fat, with a half-life of 5 days.

Three young male human volunteers underwent a complete medical check-up one week prior to the morning of the study. Each of them received a single dose of 3 mg of (14)C deltamethrin mixed in 1 g glucose and diluted first in 10 mL polyethylene glycol300 and again in 150 mL water. Total radioactivity was 1.8 + or - 0.9 mBq. ... The apparent elimination half-life was between 10.0 and 11.5 hr. ... The apparent half-life of urinary excretion was 10.0-13.5 hr, which is consistent with the plasma data. ...

Deltamethrin (1 ug) was incubated at 37 °C for 30 min with each of the following mouse microsome preparations; a) tetraethyl pyrophosphate (TEPP)-treated microsomes (no esterase and oxidase activity); b) normal microsomes (esterase acivity); c) TEPP-treated microsomes plus NADPH (oxidase activity); and d)normal microsomes plus NADPH (esterase plus oxidase activity). Deltamethrin was more rapidly metabolized under the oxidase system than under the esterase system. The major site of ring hydroxylation was 4'-position and the secondary site was the 5-position. The trans methyl group was an important site of hydroxylation of the esters and cis methyl oxidation was evident in the metabolites of the cleaved acid moiety. The preferred sites of hydroxylation were as follows; trans of dimethyl group, 4'-position in the phenol group, and cis of the dimethyl group was equal to the 5-position in the phenoxy group. Cleavage of deltamethrin to cyanohydrin may result from both esterase and oxidase enzyme activities, since larger amounts of the cleaved products were evident in the oxidase system. ... However, at a much higher (approximately 35-fold) concentration of deltamethrin than that in the above study, it was not detectably hydrolysed. ... Deltamethrin was hydrolysed by esterases in the blood, brain, kidney, and stomach of mice yielding PBald and PBacid.

In a metabolic study, (14)C-deltamethrin was administered orally to lactating dairy cows at the rate of 10 mg/kg body weight per day for 3 consecutive days. It was poorly absorbed and mainly eliminated in the feces as unchanged deltamethrin. Only 4-6% of the administered (14)C was eliminated in the urine, and 0.42-1.62% was secreted in the milk. The radiocarbon contents of various tissues were generally very low with the exception of those of the liver, kidney, and fat, which were higher. Deltamethrin degradation occured by cleavage of the ester bond, as already reported in rats and mice. The enzymes responsible for the ester bond cleavage were located in cow liver homogenate, mainly in the microsomal fraction, as seen in an in vitro study. Metabolites resulting from ester bond cleavage further metabolized and/or conjugated, resulting in a large number of compounds excreted in the urine. In the milk, the major identifiable radiolabelled compound was deltamethrin.

The major metabolic pathways of deltamethrin in mice were similar to those in rats, though there were some differences. These included the presence of more unchanged deltamethrin in mouse feces than in rat feces. In mouse feces, there were 4 monohydroxy ester metabolites (2'-OH-, 4'-OH-, 5-OH-, and trans-OH-deltamethrin and one dihydroxy metabolite (4'-OH-trans-OH- deltamethrin) that were not found in mouse urine. Major metabolites from the acid moiety in mice were Br2CA, trans-OH-Br2CA, and their glucuronide and sulfate conjugates. Among them, trans-OH-Br2CA-sulfate was detected only in mice, but not in rats. Compared with rats, much larger amounts of trans-OH-Br2CA and its conjugates were formed in mice. A major metabolite of the alcohol moiety in mice was the taurine conjugate of PBacid in the urine, which was not detected in rats. Generally, mice produced smaller amounts of phenolic compounds compared with rats. Also, 3-phenoxybenzaldehyde (PBald), 3-phenoxybenzyl alcohol (PBalc), and its glucuronide, and glucuronides of 3-(4-hydroxyphenoxy)benzyl alcohol (4'-OH-PBalc) and 5-hydroxy-3-penoxybenzoic acid (5-OH-PBacid) were found in mice, but not in rats. When mice were given an ip dose of (14) C-deltamethrin with or without piperonyl butoxide (PBO) and/or S,S,S-tributylphosphorotrithioate (DEF), the same metabolites were obtained as with oral administration. However, DEF decreased the hydrolytic products relative to the controls, while PBO decreased the oxidation products.

Sulfate of 4'-OH-PBacid accounted for about 50% of the dose, together with small amounts of free (4%) and glucuronide forms (2%). The CN group was converted mainly to thiocyanate and, in small amounts, to ITCA. The trans-isomer of deltamethrin was also rapidly metabolized and yielded almost the same metabolties as deltamethrin, though 5-OH-derivative was found in the cis-isomer, but not in the trans-isomer.

For more Metabolism/Metabolites (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (19 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Deltamethrin has known human metabolites that include 4'-hydroxy-deltamethrin.

In rats, following oral administration, elimination occurs within 2-4 days. The phenyl ring is hydroxylated, the ester bond hydrolyzed, and the acid moiety is eliminated as the glucuronide and glycine conjugates.

Intravenous disposition kinetics /in a female black Bengal goat/ using a dose of 0.2 mg/kg showed that the maximum blood concentration of deltamethrin was recorded at 0.5 min, followed by rapid decline, and a minimum concentration was detected at 6 min after administration. The following values were obtained: Vdarea 0.148 (+ or -0.02) L/kg; t1/2 (a) 0.22 (+ or -0.02) min; t1/2 (beta) 2.17 (+ or -0.37) min; Kel 1.05 (+ or -0.24) /min; AUC 4.30(+ or -0.45)ug min/mL; ClB 0.05 (+ or -0.006) L/kg/min; T~B 1.93 (+ or -0.58); fc 0.40(+ or -0.05). After 10 min, liver retained the maximum residue, and heart, adrenal gland, kidney, spleen, fat and brain also held the insecticide; liver, fat, heart and spleen retained residue after 30 min, and bone, liver and fat retained residue after 60 min of iv administration. Oral absorption of deltamethrin was poor and inconsistent, and approximately 65% of administered dose was recovered from feces and gastrointestinal contents. The excretion of deltamethrin through urine was meager, and only 0.01 and 0.013% of the administered dose was recovered after 3 and 5 days of oral administration respectively. All the tissues retained the residue after 3 days; while fat, rumen, reticulum, omasum, abomasum, large and small intestine and bone retained the residue after 5 days of oral administration; and the percentage recoveries were 1.73 and 0.027 respectively. ...

Three young male human volunteers underwent a complete medical check-up one week prior to the morning of the study. Each of them received a single dose of 3 mg of (14)C deltamethrin mixed in 1 g glucose and diluted first in 10 mL polyethylene glycol300 and again in 150 mL water. Total radioactivity was 1.8 + or - 0.9 mBq. Samples of blood, urine, saliva, and feces were taken at intervals over 5 days. Clinical and biological examinations were performed every 12 hr during the trial and one week after its termination. Radioactivity in the biological samples was measured with a liquid scintillation spectrometer. The clinical and biological checks did not detect any abnormal findings. There were no signs of side effects ... either during or after the trial period. The maximum plasma radioactivity appeared between 1 and 2 hr after administration of the product, and remained over the detection limit (0.2 KBq/L) during the 48 hr. The apparent elimination half-life was between 10.0 and 11.5 hr. The radioactivity of blood cells, as well as the saliva, was extremely low. Urinary excretion was 51-50% of the initial radioactivity; 90% of this radioactivity was excreted during the 24 hr following absorption. The apparent half-life of urinary excretion was 10.0-13.5 hr, which is consistent with the plasma data. Fecal elimination at the end of the observation period represented 10-26% of the dose. The total fecal plus urine elimination was around 64-77% of the initial dose after 96 hr.

In a feeding study, deltamethrin was administered twice daily to lactating dairy cows in portions of their daily feed at the rate of 2 or 10 mg/kg diet for 28 consecutive days. The level of 2 mg/kg diet was the residue level found in a recently treated pasture, whereas 10 mg/kg diet was five times this level. Deltamethrin residues in the milk were dose-dependent and appeared to reach a plateau between 7 and 9 days after the start of treatment. At the high deltamethrin intake of 10 mg/kg diet, the deltamethrin residue in milk was about 0.025 mg/L. Deltamethrin residues in tissues were measured 1, 4, and 9 days after the last dose. At the 10 mg/kg diet intake, very small amounts of deltamethrin residues were found in the liver (<0.005 mg/kg), kidney )<0.002 mg/kg), and muscle (0.002-0.014 mg/kg). Residues in fat were about 0.04 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg for the 2 and 10 mg/kg intake, respectively. Depletion of deltamethrin in milk was very rapid (estimated half-life was about 1 day); while in fat (renal and subcutaneous) the half-life was 7-9 days. Br2CA (3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopro-panecarboxylic acid) and PBacid (3-phenoxybenzoic acid) were the only metabolites detected in the milk and tissues of treated cows. In all cases, they were found at trace levels of < 0.0235 mg/L and < 0.034 mg/L, respectively. These two metabolites were also previously identified in rats and mice as the major degradation products of deltamethrin.

For more Absorption, Distribution and Excretion (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Used as an insecticide in a wide range of crops; Also used to control household flying and crawling insects, as a wood preservative, and as an animal ectoparasiticide; [HSDB]

Applying Wood Preservatives [Category: Other]

For Deltamethrin (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 097805) 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./

Insecticides (pyrethroid ester insecticides)

Insecticide

It is used mostly for crop protection (85% of total production), of which 45% is used on cotton, 25% on fruit and vegetable crops, 20% on cereals, maize and soya beans and the remaining 10% on miscellaneous crops such as coffee, maize and hops. It is also used in public health program (against Chagas' disease and malaria) and to protect stored crops, primarily cereal grains, coffee beans and dry beans. It can be used in animal facilities.

Deltamethrin is ... /a/ pyrethroid composed of a single isomer of 8 stereoisomers selectively prepared by the esterification of [1R, 3R or cis]-2,2-dimethyl-3-(2,2- dibromovinyl) cyclopropanecarboxylic acid with (alpha S)- or (+)-alpha-cyano-3- phenoxybenzyl alcohol or by selective recrystallization of the racemic esters obtained by esterification of the (1R, 3R or cis)-acid with the racemic or [alpha R, alpha S, or alpha RS or + or -]-alcohol.

Dustable powder; emulsifiable concentrate; emulsifiable granule; emulsion, oil in water; granule; hot fogging concentrate; oil dispersion; pour-on (discontinued term); suspension concentrate (= flowable concentrate); soluble concentrate; tablet; ultra-low volume (ULV) liquid; water dispersible granule; wettable powder.

PREMIX PARTNERS: S-Bioallethrin; Bioallethrin; Chlorpyrifos; Chlorpyrifos-methyl; Endosulfan; Piperonyl Butoxide; Triazophos.

Bonide Eight Insect Control Delta Granules (Bonide Products, Inc.) 0.1% Deltamethrin

Bonide Home Pest Eliminator (Bonide Products, Inc.) 0.02% Deltamethrin

For more Formulations/Preparations (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (143 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Veterinary Drug -> INSECTICIDE -> JECFA Functional Classes

Veterinary Drug -> INSECTICIDE -> JECFA Functional Classes

Veterinary Drug -> INSECTICIDE -> JECFA Functional Classes

Insecticides, Transformation products

Environmental transformation -> Pesticides (parent, predecessor)

The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard identifies deltamethrin (technical grade) as Class II: moderately hazardous; Main Use: insecticide.

Natural pyrethrins, the insecticidal ingredient occurring in the flowers of Tanacetum cinerariaefolium (also known as Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium or Pyrethrum cineratiae-folium), have been used widely for human and animal health protection by controlling indoor pest insects such as cockroaches, houseflies, and mosquitoes. Natural pyrethrins consist of six compounds (pyrethrin I and II; jasmolin I and II; and cinerin I and II). ... Extensive efforts on modification of chemical structures have been made ... to improve chemical properties in terms of stability in the environment (air, light, and heat) as well as better biological performance (higher selective toxicology). ...

Potent synthetic pyrethroid insecticide

Compatible with many insecticides and fungicides.

For more General Manufacturing Information (Complete) data for DELTAMETHRIN (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.