11. Insecticides

Question 1

What is the MOA of insecticides?

Answer 1

Reversible (carbamates) or irreversible (organophosphates) inhibition of cholinesterase.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of insecticide poisoning?

Answer 2

1. Consequence of acetylcholine accumulation muscarinic receptors causes: abdominal cramps, diarrhea, excessive salivation, sweating, urinary frequency, and increased bronchial secretions.
2. Nicotinic receptors causes generalized ganglionic activation, which can lead to: hypertension and either tachycardia or bradycardia, muscle twitching and fasciculations may progress to weakness and respiratory muscle paralysis.

Question 3

Who can be exposed to potential insecticide poisoning?

Answer 3

• Most common: suicide or accidents
• Occupational
• Gardening
• Warfare
• Environmental contamination (food, mosquitos)

Question 4

What are the different types of insecticides?

Answer 4

1. Organochlorines (DDT, benzene hexachlorides, cyclodienes, toxaphens)
2. Anticholinesterase compounds(Organophosphates, Carbamates)
3. Neonicotinoids (nAChR)

Question 5

Chlorinated hydrocarbon insecticide (ex: DDT)

Answer 5

acute toxicity

chronic toxicity