Products
Icaridin is commercially available as lotion and in the form of sprays (e.g. Anti-Brumm Night Lotion, Anti-Brumm Tick Stop + Citriodiol, Anti-Brumm Kids), among others. It is also known as picaridin and is one of the tropicalized repellents.
Structure and properties
Icaridin (C12H23NO3, Mr = 229.3 g/mol) is a chiral piperidine derivative that exists as a nearly odorless and colorless liquid. It is practically insoluble in water. Unlike DEET, icaridine is non-greasy and does not attack plastics. Icaridin was developed by Bayer in the 1980s (“Bayrepel”).
Effects
Icaridin has insect repellent properties. The effects are based on the formation of a protective scent coat on the skin. It is effective against malaria mosquitoes, yellow fever mosquitoes, tiger mosquitoes, horseflies, and the common wood tick, among others. The duration of action is up to 8 hours against mosquitoes and horseflies and up to 5 hours against ticks. The active ingredient is suitable for children from 1 year of age (depending on the formulation).
Indications for use
For protection against insect bites.
Dosage
According to the directions for use.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
Icaridin should not come into contact with the eyes, mucous membranes, wounds or diseased skin. No data are available on the use during pregnancy. Full precautions can be found in the package leaflet.
Adverse effects
Icaridin is considered to be well tolerated. Possible adverse effects include local skin reactions. We do not have complete data on all adverse reactions.
