Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid that possesses a broad spectrum of pesticidal activity and low mammal toxicity. It acts on the nerve cell membrane of parasites to disrupt the sodium channel current by which the polarization of the membrane is regulated. Delayed repolarization and paralysis of the pests are the consequences of this disturbance. Permethrin is rapidly metabolized by ester-hydrolysis to inactive metabolites, which are excreted primarily in the urine.
Drug information sourced from Incepta Pharma.