PARAQUAT

NEWS: Paraquat (also known as Paraquat Dichloride or Methyl Viologen) is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world.

Major Uses of Paraquat

  • Controls the growth of weeds.
  • Used as a non-selective herbicide (kills most plants it comes into contact with).
  • Used to desiccate (dry out) crops such as cotton before harvesting, making harvesting easier.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Paraquat as a Category 2 Chemical.

  • Moderately Hazardous
  • Moderately Irritating

Global Status of Paraquat

Countries that have Banned Paraquat

  • More than 70 countries have banned its sale and use due to health concerns, including China, European Union (EU) countries

Countries Where It Is Still Used:

  • India, United States (US)

Paraquat is considered controversial because:

  • It is highly toxic to humans.
  • Even small quantities can cause severe organ damage.
  • There is no specific antidote available.
  • Accidental or intentional ingestion often leads to high mortality.

How Does Paraquat Poisoning Occur?

Ingestion (Most Common Route)

  • The most common cause of poisoning is swallowing paraquat accidentally or intentionally.

Skin Absorption

  • Poisoning may also occur through: Prolonged skin contact, Absorption through damaged skin

Symptoms of Paraquat Poisoning

  • The symptoms depend upon:
  • Amount of chemical exposure --> Route of exposure, Duration of exposure
  • Affected organs include: Heart, Kidneys, Liver, Lungs
  • Life-threatening complications can develop rapidly: Acute Kidney Failure, Rapid Heart Rate (Tachycardia), Heart Failure, Liver Failure, Seizures, Respiratory Failure

Treatment of Paraquat Poisoning

  • No Specific Antidoteà Currently, there is no known antidote for paraquat poisoning.
  • Supportive Treatmentà Some treatment approaches include:

Immunosuppression Therapy

  • Medicines are used to reduce harmful immune responses and inflammation.

Charcoal Haemoperfusion

  • Blood is passed through activated charcoal filters.
  • Helps remove paraquat from the bloodstream.

Supportive Care

  • Oxygen management
  • Kidney support
  • Fluid and electrolyte balance
  • Intensive care monitoring
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