Igr mechanism of action diagram

How igr works — illustrated mechanism of action · PestControlBasics.com

🧪 Active Ingredient Profile

Pyriproxyfen (Nylar) — Long-Lasting IGR for Fleas & Mosquitoes

Insect Growth Regulator (Juvenile Hormone Analog) · CAS 95737-68-1

Pyriproxyfen (Nylar) is the second-generation juvenile hormone mimic after methoprene — more stable, longer-lasting, and effective at lower concentrations. It's the preferred IGR in many professional flea programs and is widely used for mosquito larval control.

Mode of Action Highly potent juvenile hormone mimic — more stable UV-stable and longer-lasting than methoprene; prevents larval maturation and induces sterility in adults at low doses
⚖️ Educational use only. Always read and follow the full product label — the label is the law under FIFRA. Full disclaimer → | ⚗️ Mixing Calculator →

📋 Key Facts

Class
IGR — Juvenile Hormone Analog
Signal Word
Caution
Residual
Up to 7 months indoors; more UV-stable than methoprene
Adult Effect
Sterilizes adult female insects at low doses (unique)
Mosquito Use
WHO-approved for drinking water mosquito control
Key Products
Nylar, Archer IGR, Tekko, Martin's IGR
Bee Safety
Very low toxicity to bees

🎯 Primary Uses

Pyriproxyfen is used in: flea management programs (Nylar-containing sprays), mosquito larval control in standing water (more stable than methoprene in sunlight), stored product pest management, cockroach programs as a growth regulator component, and tobacco whitefly control. Its ability to sterilize adult females makes it particularly valuable.

🛡️ Safety Summary

Very low mammalian toxicity — one of the safest pesticides available. Well-tolerated by all mammal species. WHO-approved for use in drinking water containers for mosquito control in developing countries — a strong indicator of its safety profile.

🔬 Resistance Status

Very limited resistance documented. The adult sterilization effect provides population control even in populations with some larval tolerance. Considered a very durable pest management tool.

🏷️ Common Products

Nylar IGRArcher IGRTekko ProMartin's IGRZoecon RF-259

🦺 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Required PPE varies by formulation and application method. Always read the product label — the label is the law and overrides general guidance.

⚠️ Label compliance: The product label is a legal document under FIFRA. Applying any pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its label is a federal violation.

📋 Application Best Practices

💡 Storage: Store in original container, away from children, in a cool dry location. Never transfer to food or beverage containers. Check local regulations for disposal — most areas have household hazardous waste collection events.
Example
0.5 oz
per gallon
⚗️ Mixing Calculator
Enter your sprayer size and target rate — get the exact amount to pour. Backpack, hand sprayer, hose-end, or skid unit.
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🌿 Environmental & Resistance Considerations

Responsible pesticide use protects both effectiveness and the environment:

🐛 Pests This Treats — Learn More

Click any pest to view its full identification guide, biology, and treatment options.

🐛 Ants → 🐛 Fleas → 🐛 Mosquito → 🐛 Scales → 🐛 Ticks → 🐛 Whitefly →

🌿 Environmental & Ecological Impact

🐝 Bees / PollinatorsLOW
🐟 Fish / Aquatic LifeLOW
🐦 BirdsLOW
🐕 Mammals / PetsLOW
🦐 Aquatic InvertebratesMODERATE
💡 Highly selective IGR. Very low vertebrate toxicity. Can affect aquatic insect larvae at high concentrations.

⏱️ Residual & Re-entry Timeline

🔹
Apply
Follow label mixing and application rates
🔸
Re-entry: 2–4 hours
Keep people and pets out of treated area
🟢
Effective period: 30–90 days
Active residual — killing or repelling target pests
🔄
Reapply
Re-treat when pest activity returns or residual expires

🔄 Alternatives & Related Products

Same chemical class or different approaches to the same pests.

🔄
Methoprene
Same class: IGR
↔️
Pyrethrin
Different approach: Botanical Pyrethrin
↔️
Boric Acid
Different approach: Inorganic

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is pyriproxyfen safe for pets?
Follow the product label. Keep pets out of treated areas until completely dried (2–4 hours for sprays). Once dry, treated surfaces pose minimal risk to dogs and cats.
Q: Can I use pyriproxyfen indoors?
Check the specific product label — formulations vary. Baits and dusts often have indoor labeling; concentrates and granulars are typically outdoor.
Q: How long does pyriproxyfen last after application?
Residual varies by formulation, surface type, weather, and UV exposure. Indoor applications last longer than outdoor. Check the product label for re-application intervals.
Q: What should I do if exposed?
Remove contaminated clothing, wash skin with soap and water. For eye contact, rinse 15–20 minutes. For ingestion or severe symptoms, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Have the product label available.

📋 Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

📋

Pyriproxyfen (Nylar) — Safety Data Sheet

View the official SDS document for this product directly on the CDMS label database.

Pyriproxyfen (Nylar) Safety Data Sheet page 1
📄 Pyriproxyfen (Nylar) — Safety Data Sheet · View the complete SDS document above or download below
📚 Sources: EPA Pesticide Labels · NPIC Pesticide Info
Published: Jan 1, 2025 · Updated: Apr 7, 2026
🔮
Reviewed by Derek GiordanoContent reviewed by a licensed pest management professional and cross-referenced against EPA, university extension, and manufacturer technical data. Last reviewed: April 2026.