Pyrethrin poisoning from commercial-strength flea and tick spray.

A case of acute poisoning followed inhalation and cutaneous exposure to an over-the-counter flea and tick insecticide containing 0.15% pyrethrins. A self-limited syndrome of cutaneous paresthesias, upper respiratory tract irritation, dyspnea with productive cough, and repetitive vomiting and diarrhea occurred. The patient recovered uneventfully with conservative therapy. A review of the pharmacology and toxicity of pyrethrins and related products is discussed, as well as management of pyrethrin poisoning.