Etofenprox is a synthetic “pyrethroid-like” ether insecticide. Etofenprox differs in structure from pyrethroids in that it contains an ether moiety rather than an ester moiety, lacks a carbonyl group, has no cyano group and no halogen. The structure of etofenprox makes it more stable, exhibit a lower toxicity and allows a reduction of pesticidal burden to the environment. The mode of action against insects is very similar to that of other pyrethroids. The main action site is the neuronal axon.
Etofenprox is registered in more than 50 countries for both agricultural and public health uses. In the US, etofenprox is currently registered for the following uses: rice, mosquito adulticiding, spot treatment for cats; indoor and outdoor residential use; and use in non-food handling areas of commercial food-handling establishments.