Icaridin-Loading Nitrocellulose As a New Repellent Against Aquatic Leech with Waterproof and Long-Acting Properties

Leech attachment is a common nuisance to outdoor recreationists and farmers in aquatic environments. Consequences include bleeding, infection, and, rarely, death. Methods to prevent leech attachment are anecdotal and individual; effective repellent formulations with universal applicability are needed. In this study, icaridin is demonstrated to be repellent and toxic to aquatic leech, and formulation of icaridin loading nitrocellulose (Icar-Nitr) is proposed as a new leech repellent. The nitrocellulose provided sustained drug release and waterproof properties. One optimal formulation, 10-Icar-Nitr, proved effective for leech repelling in aquatic environment. Using a rat model, the same formulation also showed removal and killing after leech attachment. The nitrocellulose reduced percutaneous absorption of icaridin, and 10-Icar-Nitr showed good biocompatibility. This study provides a potential new and practicable strategy for prevention and removal against leech attachment and bites.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Leech attachment is a common nuisance to outdoor recreationists and farmers in aquatic environments. Consequences include bleeding, infection, and, rarely, death.

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