Repellents

Products

Repellents are mostly used in the form of sprays. In addition, lotions, creams, wristbands and evaporators, for example, are also commercially available.

Effects

Repellents have insect and/or mite repellent properties, meaning they prevent biting or being bitten by parasites such as mosquitoes and ticks, as well as biting insects such as wasps. The products differ in their spectrum of action, their strength of action and their duration of action. Care must therefore be taken to determine whether a product is suitable for the intended purpose. Some repellents, such as permethrin, are additionally insecticidal and acaricidal, i.e. they not only repel the parasites but can also kill them. The application is intended to prevent the bites or stings of the parasites and insects, so on the one hand the resulting local reaction, allergic reactions and on the other hand the transmission of infectious diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, Lyme disease and early summer meningoencephalitis (TBE).

Indications

For the prevention of insect bites, mosquito bites, tick bites, horsefly bites, allergic reactions, and communicable diseases.

Active ingredients

The best known repellents include:

  • DEET (diethyltoluamide).
  • Icaridin (Picaridin)
  • Citriodiol (PMD)
  • Citronella oil
  • Permethrin, mainly for textiles and for mosquito nets.

Other repellents:

Dosage

The application is based on the instructions for use. The following are general instructions for use:

  • Apply evenly and without gaps to exposed and uncovered skin. Do not use under clothing.
  • The means should not get on injured or diseased skin, on the mucous membrane, on or in the ears or in the eyes.
  • For children, apply sparingly and avoid the hands and mouth area. Not all repellents are suitable for children.
  • Omit face or apply with caution only. Spray first into the hands.
  • Do not inhale the aerosol.
  • Some products are also suitable for clothing. With DEET, care must be taken that it attacks plastics and synthetic fibers.
  • Wash hands after application. Do not apply to the hands of children.
  • Do not allow children to apply the products themselves. Keep out of reach of children.
  • Observe the duration of action and repeat the application in time.
  • Apply no earlier than 20 minutes after applying the sunscreen.
  • Note activity of the parasites. Some sting during the day, others in the evening and at night.
  • Product properties also depend on the formulation, physical activity, sweating, water exposure and individual sensitivity, not just the active ingredient.
  • Take additional protective measures (e.g., clothing, mosquito nets, preventive medication, vaccinations).

Contraindications

Before use, it is necessary to check whether the means are suitable for infants and children and whether they may be used during pregnancy and lactation.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include localized skin reactions and allergic reactions. Some products have negative characteristics such as an unpleasant odor and an oily consistency. DEET attacks and can damage certain plastics and paints. DEET should not be taken because it can cause low blood pressure, seizures, and coma. Fatalities have been reported. Therefore, the products must be kept out of the reach of children. DEET can damage the conjunctiva if it gets into the eyes. Cardiovascular, neurotoxic and cutaneous side effects may possibly occur if the dosage is too high.