Also Known As:
fipronil
Fipronil is a broad-spectrum insecticide, used to control cockroaches, ants, fleas, mole crickets, ticks, mites, subterranean termites, and agricultural pests. It is found in flea treatments for cats and dogs, such as FrontlineŽ, and roach and ant bait traps for indoor use in both residential and commercial settings. Fipronil may also be applied outdoors for ornamentals, lawns and on rice and corn crops.
Fipronil disrupts the insect’s central nervous system and is a suspected endocrine disruptor. Concerns about human exposure to Frontline spray treatment were raised in 1996 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, due to the risk of chronic inhalation and skin absorption by commercial pet groomers and veterinarians. This led to a denial of registration for the spray product in New York State. In 1999, upon reviewing additional data, the product was registered. Fipronil use in agricultural settings has also raised concerns about harm to bees and other beneficial insects.
Fipronil is considered safer than other pet flea and tick products, such as those containing carbaryl, malathion, dichlorvos or naled.
Children can be exposed to fipronil by touching treated pets or by opening baits and putting them in their mouths. They could also ingest residues of fipronil by eating foods treated with the pesticide.
"Health Threats & Effects: Harmful Pet Products," Natural Resources Defense Council, October 31, 2000.
http://www.nrdc.org/health/effects/qpets.asp
The Pesticide Advisor, Pesticide Action Network