What is the name of rat poison? - briefly
The most common rat poison is an anticoagulant rodenticide, exemplified by compounds such as bromadiolone, brodifacoum, and warfarin. These agents induce fatal internal bleeding by blocking vitamin K recycling.
What is the name of rat poison? - in detail
Rat poison, commonly referred to as rodenticide, is identified by its active chemical ingredient. The most widely recognized compounds include:
- Brodifacoum – a second‑generation anticoagulant, marketed under names such as Dimefox and Stryker.
- Bromadiolone – another potent anticoagulant, sold as Bromax, Avitrol, and Rat X.
- Diphacinone – a first‑generation anticoagulant, available in products like Diphac and Ratacide.
- Chlorophacinone – similar to diphacinone, found in formulations such as Rodex and Ratacide.
- Warfarin – the original anticoagulant rodenticide, still sold under the brand name Warfarin®.
- Zinc phosphide – a fumigant released as phosphine gas when ingested, marketed as Zinc Phos and D-Phos.
- Aluminum phosphide – another phosphide, distributed as Phostoxin and AlP.
- Bromethalin – a neurotoxic agent, sold as Bromethalin® and B-100.
- Cholecalciferol (vitamin D₃) – a hypercalcemic toxin, found in products like D-Vit and Rat 100.
These substances are formulated into pellets, blocks, or liquid baits, each designed for specific environments and target species. Anticoagulants function by disrupting blood clotting, leading to internal hemorrhage after several days of consumption. Phosphides generate toxic gas in the stomach, causing rapid death. Bromethalin interferes with mitochondrial energy production, while cholecalciferol induces fatal calcium overload.
Safety regulations require labeling that includes active ingredient concentration, toxic dose (LD₅₀), and handling precautions. Professional pest‑control operators must follow EPA‐approved usage rates, restrict access to non‑target animals, and employ proper disposal methods for unused bait and contaminated materials.