What substances are used to kill a bedbug? - briefly
Common agents include pyrethroid insecticides (e.g., permethrin, deltamethrin), neonicotinoids (such as imidacloprid), desiccant powders (silica gel, diatomaceous earth), and steam or heat treatments above 45 °C. Some professionals also employ insect growth regulators (e.g., hydroprene) to disrupt development.
What substances are used to kill a bedbug? - in detail
Bed‑bug control relies on a limited range of chemical agents that act through contact toxicity, ingestion, or disruption of development. The most widely registered classes are:
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Synthetic pyrethroids (e.g., deltamethrin, bifenthrin, lambda‑cyhalothrin).
Mode: bind to voltage‑gated sodium channels, causing paralysis.
Use: spray formulations for cracks, crevices, and baseboards; often combined with synergists such as piperonyl‑butoxide to overcome resistance. -
Neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid, acetamiprid).
Mode: agonize nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, leading to overstimulation of the nervous system.
Use: aerosol or dust products applied to hiding places; effective against pyrethroid‑resistant populations. -
Insect growth regulators (IGRs) (e.g., hydroprene, methoprene).
Mode: mimic juvenile hormone, preventing molting and reproduction.
Use: incorporated into dusts or sprays applied to harborages; not lethal to adults but suppresses population buildup. -
Silica‑based desiccants (e.g., diatomaceous earth, silica gel powders).
Mode: abrade the insect cuticle, causing loss of moisture.
Use: fine powders spread in seams, mattress edges, and furniture; low toxicity to humans and pets. -
Alcohol‑based solutions (e.g., isopropyl alcohol 70 %).
Mode: rapid dehydration of the exoskeleton upon direct contact.
Use: spot treatment of visible insects; flammable, requires ventilation. -
Essential‑oil extracts (e.g., tea‑tree oil, clove oil, neem oil).
Mode: contain terpenoids and phenolics that interfere with nervous function.
Use: incorporated into sprays or emulsions; efficacy varies, generally lower than synthetic insecticides. -
Cold‑temperature agents (e.g., liquid nitrogen sprays).
Mode: induce rapid freezing, leading to cellular rupture.
Use: applied to infested fabrics or furniture; requires protective equipment.
Each class demands specific handling precautions. Pyrethroids and neonicotinoids are neurotoxic; protective gloves and masks are recommended. Desiccants and silica powders should avoid inhalation. Alcohol and liquid nitrogen present fire or frost hazards, respectively. Integrated pest management combines these chemicals with non‑chemical tactics—heat treatment, vacuuming, and enclosure encasements—to achieve lasting suppression.