Abstract: Background and Objective: Carbamate pesticides are recognized for their high acute toxicity with an inhibitory action on acetylcholinesterase activity. This study aims to evaluate the acute toxicity of “Oxamax®”, a carbamate insecticide, an oxamyl-based formulation, in rats and rabbits. Materials and Methods: Oncins France Strain A (OFA) rats aged 8 to 12 weeks were used for acute oral and respiratory toxicity tests. For skin and eye toxicity tests, rabbits of the New Zealand breed with an average weight of 3 kg were used. The various tests were conducted according to OECD guidelines for chemical testing. Acetylcholinesterase activity was assessed in animals exposed to the respiratory route. Results: Animals treated orally showed clinical signs of toxicity (apathy, drowsiness, convulsions and death) at a dose of 300 mg/kg. With an oral Lethal Dose 50 (LD50) in rats between 50 and 300 mg/kg, Oxamax® can be classified in category 3 of the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). The primary dermal irritation index (PDII) determined for this carbamate is 3.11. Oxamax® is classified as moderately irritating to the skin. The maximum mean total score (MMTS) for “Oxamax®” was 46.3, classifying the product as moderately irritating to the eyes. The rate of inhibition of cholinesterase activity varied from 23.9 to 83.17% for doses ranging from 0.5 to 5 mg/L following exposure for 4 hrs. Conclusion: Like most carbamate pesticides, “Oxamax®” exerted high acute toxicity by the oral, dermal, ocular and respiratory routes. This molecule must be used in strict compliance with the instructions for use. PubDate: 30 March, 2024
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