Fenthion (Fen)

Fenthion is an organothiophosphate insecticide, avicide, and acaricide. Like most other organophosphates, its mode of action is via cholinesterase inhibition. Fenthion exposure to general population is quite limited based on its bioavailability. Common form of fenthion exposure is occupation related, and occurs through dermal contact or inhalation of dust and sprays. Another likely means of contamination is through ingestion of food, especially, if it has been applied quite recently with fenthion. So far, ingestion is the most likely severe poisoning case on humans and animals. To avoid this, crops applied with fenthion should be allowed enough degradation time before harvesting. Normally, 2 - 4 weeks time is enough depending upon the type of crop.Fenthion poisoning is consistent with symptoms of other organophosphate effects on human health. Primarily, the effect is cholinesterase inhibition.