Aldicarb

Aldicarb is a carbamate insecticide with structural formula: 2-methyl-2-(methylthio)propionaldehyde O-methylcarbamoyloxime. Aldicarb is the active substance in Temik pesticide, which is effective against thrips, aphids, spider mites, lygus, fleahoppers, and leafminers but is primarily used as a nematicide.^[1] In mammals it is a cholinesterase inhibitor (prevents neurotransmitter breakdown). In case of severe poisoning, the victim dies of respiratory failure. It is also highly toxic for birds.

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Regulatory Status

Aldicarb is approved by the USEPA for use by professional pesticide applicators on a variety of crops, including cotton, beans, and others. It is not approved for household use.^[2]

"Tres Pasitos", a mouse, rat, and roach killer that contains high concentrations of aldicarb, has been illegally imported into the United States from Mexico and other Latin American countries. The product is highly toxic to animals and people, and it should not be used. EPA

Toxicity in mammals

Aldicarb is a fast-acting cholinesterase inhibitor, causing rapid accumulation of acetylcholine at the synaptic cleft. It is widely used to study cholinergic neurotransmission in simple systems such as the nematode C. elegans.

Exposure to high amounts of aldicarb can cause weakness, blurred vision, headache, nausea, tearing, sweating, and tremors in people. Very high doses can kill people, because it can paralyze the respiratory system. EPA

It has a LD50 rating of 0.5 - 1.5 mg/kg when in liquid form and a LD50 rating of 7mg/kg when in solid form.

See also

• Pesticide toxicity to bees

References

1. ^ Temik. Bayer CropScience. Retrieved on 2007-08-13.
2. ^ Aldicarb. Pesticide Information Profiles. The Extension Toxicology Network (June 1996). Retrieved on 2007-08-13.