OnderLaw

Is There a Link Between Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease?

There is a strong link between paraquat and Parkinson’s disease. For decades now, scientists have known that paraquat inhibits and stops the brain’s ability to produce dopamine, which is an important neurotransmitter that controls movement. This results in Parkinson’s disease.

What Herbicides Contain Paraquat?

Paraquat is known by several trade names. Herbicides with paraquat brand names include: Gramoxone Cyclone CycloneStar Firestorm Helmquat Parazone Paraquat 3 SL (Tigris) Quick-Quat Purgatory 3 SL Willowood Paraquat 3SL Blanco Bonedry Bonfire Herbicide Devour Para-SHOT 3.0 Paraquat 43.2% SL (RedEagle) Paraquat Concentrate (Solera) and more.

Is Paraquat Dangerous?

Yes. Paraquat is so dangerous that a special license is required for purchase. It kills plants on contact, and less than a teaspoon can kill a person when ingested. People can be exposed to paraquat through their skin, by breathing it in, by swallowing it, and by being exposed through the soil. As we are learning, its ties to neurological disease and other long-term effects can be debilitating and deadly.

Is Paraquat a Restricted-Use Pesticide (RUP)?

Gramoxone and other pesticides that contain paraquat are considered in the United States to be RUPs (restricted-use pesticides) and can only be purchased by certified licensed applicators. For years, however, anyone could use paraquat products, so long as they were purchased by someone who took a test to be licensed to buy it.

Can People Who Live Near Farm Fields be Exposed?

Paraquat’s dangerous effects can go beyond farm fields. A 2009 study found that people who lived 500 feet from fields where paraquat is used were 75% more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease.