Piperonyl Butoxide

Toxicity report from EPA on Piperonyl Butoxide used
in outdoor misting systems
...Click here for report...

PBO (Piperonyl Butioxide) is an emulsifiable synergist for use in combination with insecticides, especially synthetic pyrethroids, as a tank mix to overcome resistance that pests develop with constant use of insecticides.

PBO is a unique tank additive that restores activity against resistant strains of pests. It acts by inhibiting naturally occurring enzymes that would otherwise degrade the insecticide molecule.

PBO breaks through the insect's defense and its synergistic activity makes the insecticide more powerful and effective. With the high cost of insecticides, PBO effectively reduces the cost per gallon of spray solution by allowing the applicator to use less active ingredient to obtain the mortality rate desired.

Insects are amazingly adaptable, and possess an enzyme system called the mixed-function oxidases (MFO's) that give them the ability to de-toxify and become resistant to many insecticides, especially synthetic pyrethroids. Continual application of pesticides start the build-up of resistance and thus the efficacy of the spray diminishes. PBO inhibits the action of MFO's and restores the killing power of the insecticide, which results in less expensive and/or more effective pest control. Actual results show that PBO either decreased the cost of pest control since smaller doses are needed, or provided better control of insects where cases of maximum dosages of pesticides without PBO had failed.

Therefore, PBO can PROLONG the usefulness of insecticides by overcoming MFO resistance. Improved control means fewer applications of insecticides, thus providing cost savings as well as environmental benefits.