Trade names include AC 3422, Alkron, Alleron, Aphamite, Corothion, E-605, ENT 15108, Ethyl parathion, Etilon, Fosferno 50, Niran, Orthophos, Panthion, Paramar, Paraphos, Parathene, Parawet, Phoskil, Rhodiatox, Soprathion, Stathion and Thiophos. Because of its high toxicity and risks of exposure to agricultural workers and to birds, and in response to the manufacturers' request, EPA in January 1992 announced the cancellation of all uses of parathion on fruit, nut and vegetable crops. The only uses retained are those on alfalfa, barley, corn, cotton, sorghum, soybeans, sunflowers and wheat. Further, to reduce exposure of agricultural workers, parathion may be applied to these crops only by commercially certified aerial applicators and treated crops may not be harvested by hand. RUPs may be purchased and used only by certified applicators.
Parathion is one of a class of insecticides referred to as organophosphates.
These chemicals act by interfering with the activities of cholinesterase, an enzyme that is essential for the proper working of the nervous systems of both humans and insects. Please refer to the Toxicology Information Brief on cholinesterase-inhibition for a more detailed description of this topic. Skin which has come in contact with this material should be washed immediately with soap and water and all contaminated clothing should be removed. Persons with cardiovascular, liver or kidney diseases, glaucoma, or central nervous system abnormalities may be at increased risk from exposure to parathion. Parathion is not irritating to the eyes.