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insect repellant
N,N-dimethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) is preferred agent in this class.
- 10% DEET provides 2 hours of protection
- 30% DEET provides 5 hours of protection
- >= 20% DEET provides protection from ticks
Procedure:
- avoid spraying hands & face
- spray in adequately ventilated area
- wash skin & clothing when returning indoors
Notes:
- natural insect repellents are safe but not effective.
- avoid using combinations of sunscreen & insect repellent
- sunscreen requires more frequent application & should be applied separately [4]
- insect repellent can decrease the effectiveness of sunscreen
Specific
N,N-dimethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET, Ultrathon)
General
topical agent
References
- Prescriber's Letter 10(7):40 2003
Keeping Safe From West Nile Virus
Detail-Document#: 190709
(subscription needed) http://www.prescribersletter.com
- Prescriber's Letter 12(6): 2005
Keeping Safe From West Nile Virus
Detail-Document#: 210601
(subscription needed) http://www.prescribersletter.com
- Prescriber's Letter 17(7): 2010
PATIENT HANDOUT: Insect Repellents
COMMENTARY: Recommendations for the Use of Insect Repellents
Detail-Document#: 260710
(subscription needed) http://www.prescribersletter.com
- Henderson EJ, Rutt JN, Albertini LW
JAMA Pediatrics Patient Page
What Parents Should Know About Bugs and Bug Repellents.
JAMA Pediatr. 2023;177(9):985.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2807917