Propoxur

Propoxur (Baygon) is a carbamate non-systemic insecticide introduced in 1959 with a fast knockdown and long residual effect used against turf, forestry, and household pests and fleas. It is also used in pest control for other domestic animals, Anopheles mosquitoes, ants, gypsy moths, and other agricultural pests. It can also be used as a molluscicide. Propoxur (Baygon) is a carbamate non-systemic insecticide introduced in 1959 with a fast knockdown and long residual effect used against turf, forestry, and household pests and fleas. It is also used in pest control for other domestic animals, Anopheles mosquitoes, ants, gypsy moths, and other agricultural pests. It can also be used as a molluscicide. Several U.S. states have petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to use propoxur against bedbug infestations, but the EPA has been reluctant to approve indoor use because of its potential toxicity to children after chronic exposure. Carbamate insecticides kill insects by reversibly inactivating the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Propoxur rapidly breaks down in alkaline solution. Propoxur is highly toxic to many bird species, but its toxicity varies by the species. It is moderately to slightly toxic to fish and other aquatic species. Propoxur is highly toxic to honeybees.