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Herbicide Poisoning

Herbicide poisoning, as defined by Mosby’s Medical Dictionary, is caused by inhaling, ingesting or otherwise absorbing substances that are used for killing weeds and defoliating. Herbicides have been most often used for agricultural uses, in which poisoning can affect both humans and animals.

  1. Agricultural Herbicide Classes

    • The classes of agricultural herbicides are chlorophenoxyacetic acids, bipyridinium compounds (including paraquat and diquat) and a miscellaneous class consisting of diuron, monuron, atrazine, simazine, chlorpropham and alachlor.

    Herbicide Poisoning Symptoms in Humans

    • Herbicides are considered a comparatively low threat to humans. Poisoning symptoms generally involve irritation to the eyes, skin or lungs, but some reactions can be severe.

    Serious Herbicide Poisoning in Humans

    • Dangerous effects may occur after a human is exposed to a toxic dose of herbicides. These include, but are not limited to: gastrointestinal distress, neuropathy, dehydration, dysphasia, transient liver and kidney damage, and paralysis.

    Treatments for Mild Herbicide Poisoning

    • Treatment for less severe cases of herbicide poisoning includes washing contaminated skin with warm water and soap, flushing eyes with water or eye solution, and taking an activated charcoal solution orally.

    More Severe Poisoning Treatment

    • Treatment of more severe cases may require oral suctioning, a stomach pump, and/or assisted pulmonary procedures.

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