Aldicarb
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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. 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.
[edit] 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.
Aldicarb is illegal in the United States but is often imported illegally from Mexico. According to the EPA "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. What "Tres Pasitos" does to pests, it can also do to you." EPA
