Bug sprays

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This is poisoning from breathing in or swallowing bug spray.

The majority of bug repellents contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) as their active ingredient. It is one of the few insect repellants that work. DEET is recommended to prevent mosquito-born diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and West Nile virus.

Other less effective forms of bug sprays contain pyrethrins. Pyrethrins are a pesticide created from the chrysanthemum flower. It is generally considered non-toxic, but it can cause breathing problems if large doses are inhaled.

• Various bug sprays (insect repellants)

Review Date: 06/01/2006
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.