organophosphate insecticide

Insecticidal compounds that cause the irreversible inhibition of the cholinesterase enzymes that break down acetylcholine. As this mechanism of action is very toxic to humans, the compounds should be used with great care. Malathion and permethrin may be used to control lice in humans and have many applications in veterinary medicine and agriculture. In 1998 organophosphates were the most widely used insecticides, with 40% of the global market.

According to the results of a survey by a UK team of psychiatrists, announced in 1998, one in ten farmers regularly exposed to organophosphates will suffer irreversible physical and mental damage. Sheep dipping is the most common source of exposure. Reported symptoms include tiredness and speech problems. Organophosphate-induced delayed neuropathy is a condition of nerve and muscle damage through prolonged contact with organophosphates, which can lead to paralysis.