Mosquito and tick repellants that contain the active ingredient DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) are considered to be the most effective. However, their use is associated with the risk of side effects. What can threaten us?
Research by scientists from the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement in Montpellier showed the neurotoxic effects of DEET, which can seriously endanger our health. The results of the conducted research have been published in BMC Biology. It turned out that in addition to the fact that DEET changes the behavior of insects, it also blocks the action of acetylcholine esterase. The secretion of this enzyme is associated with the transmission of nerve impulses. Inhibition of its basic functions in the body causes serious disturbances and may have irreversible consequences (e.g. paralysis of the respiratory muscles).
In addition, DEET was also put under the scrutiny of the American organization Environmental Working Group (EEC), showing that it is not a substance that completely protects against insects, similar to icaridin, IR3535 or PMD. Moreover, it has been proven that mosquitoes get used to synthetic preparations and change their aroma system. In this way, the DEET protective barrier acts on them only once. Preparations with the above-mentioned active substance were also withdrawn from pharmacies due to their biocidal activity.
The use of repellants with the active substance in the form of DEET three times a day can already lead to the first symptoms of poisoning. In the first place, redness and watery eyes may appear. If the concentration of DEET is 30 percent. or more side effects of frequent repellant use may be dizziness and headaches, mucosal irritations, and muscle tremors. The rate of absorption of DEET is twice as fast in the case of skin moisturized previously with any moisturizing creams, oils or sunscreen preparations. It should also not be applied to the skin underneath clothing.
According to the European Commission Directive (2010/51 / EU of August 11.08.2010, 12), the use of products containing DEET, which are designed to protect us and our children from mosquito bites, is forbidden in the case of pregnant women (due to possible damage to fetus) and children under XNUMX years of age.