Cypermethrin is a man-made pesticide, first created in 1974 to replicate the toxic effects of pyrethrum extract. Pyrethrum extract is a substance that originates from the chrysanthemum. Insects that ingest cypermethrin or come in close contact to the poison die. Cypermethrin poses some health risks and carries some adverse effects for humans as well. The effects of cypermethrin have been extensively tested on animals by the EPA, as well as determined through reports of accidental poisonings in humans.
Skin Irritation
People who distribute cypermethrin as part of their work, or who accidentally come in contact with the chemical, generally experience skin irritation in varying degrees. The National Pesticide Information Center explains that tingling itching, and burning of the skin are common effects in humans. Some people may also feel dizzy when working with cypermethrin.
Increased Cancer Risk
Cypermethrin is a chemical that is part of group C, as classified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Group C indicates substances that are potential human carcinogens or that may increase a person's risk of developing cancer. The EPA established this rating for cypermethrin based on the chemical's effects on animals, though the amounts of pesticide ingested by the animals on a daily basis were much higher than a typical human accidental ingestion would be.
Organ Damage
Cornell University's Extension Toxicology Network (EXTOXNET) states that one of the adverse effects of cypermethrin on humans is organ damage. Potentially dangerous changes to the liver and kidneys, including an increase of the organs' weight, is possible. Extended exposure to the substance may lead to damage of the central nervous system, a far more serious health risk than the dizziness associated with the occasional handling of the chemical.
