Author: MJ (---.prtc.net)
Date: 08-27-07 06:23
This is from a Duke Medical page on pediatrics, summer issue.
"The dangers of DEET
Don't assume the fragrant smell wafting from that bottle of insect repellant means it's safe and non-toxic. Most brands contain the insecticide DEET - a chemical which is generally safe when used in small amounts and by itself. But when combined with other chemicals or medications, DEET can have toxic effects on the brain and body, cautions Duke pharmacologist Mohammed Abou Donia, who has tested the effect of numerous chemicals found in the environment on chickens, which have a nervous system similar to humans. An expert in studying the origins of Gulf War Syndrome as well as the effects of pesticides, Abou Donia says that following a few simple rules should minimize safety concerns.
First, never use insect repellents on an infant. Their skin is too thin to provide an adequate barrier against absorption, and their systems cannot metabolize drugs and chemicals as well as an older child or an adult.
Second, never combine insecticides with medications. Even so simple a drug as an antihistamine can combine with DEET to cause toxic and long-term side effects, says Abou Donia.
While few scientific studies exist on the dangers of combining chemicals with medications, Abou Donia says the potential for danger always exists. "Don't spray your yard for bugs and then go in the house and take medications," he says. "Until we have more data on potential interactions, safe is better than sorry." "
I learned a couple of things from it, living in DEET land (wonder if "medications" includes alcohol?)...and also understand now why the phrase "running around like a chicken with its head cut off" really is apropos for humans.
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