Coumatetralyl is an anticoagulant of the warfarin type. Symptoms of overexposure relate to failure of the blood clotting mechanism and include bleeding gums and failure of blood clotting after skin wounds. After one exposure the toxicity of coumatetralyl is relatively low, however if overexposure continues over several days the product becomes more toxic. That is, the product must be constantly present in the blood for more than 1 to 2 days in order to be hi ghly toxic. A single exposure, even though relatively large, may not produce toxic sypmtoms as the compound is quite rapidly metabolised. Chronic: animal studies show no evidence of carcinogenic or teratogenic effects.

Common Applications

Commonly used with grains & other cerials in conjunction with a tracking powder to monitor feeding activity in a particular area. Tracking powder also clings to furr, which allows more poison to be ingested from grooming. Concentrations of the chemical are usually 500mg per 1Kg of bait.

Product Example

Toxicity

Oral (ingestion) - rat 16.5 mg/kg, Dermal (skin contact) - rat 25-30 mg/kg These data refer to the active constituent. The toxicity of the product is greater after repeated exposure than in a single dose. Animal tests have shown coumatetralyl not to have any carcinogenic or teratogenic potential.

Treatment & Antidote

If poisoning occurs contact a doctor or Poisons Information Centre. Vitamin K1 (phytomenadione) is antidotal. If swallowed, and if more than 15 minutes from a hospital, induce vomiting, providing the patient is concious, preferably using a correct emetic. If on skin, wash material off the skin with soap and water. If in the eye, hold eye open and flood with water for at least 15 minutes and see a doctor.