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General Agriculture & Tools

Profenofos 40% + Cypermethrin 4% EC: Pests, Mode, and Safety

Profenofos 40% + Cypermethrin 4% EC is a synergistic combination insecticide providing contact, stomach, and ovicidal action against stubborn caterpillars and sucking pests. It pairs an organophosphate with a synthetic pyrethroid to achieve fast knockdown and robust residual control in cotton and field crops.

Last reviewed: 10 November 2026

Synergistic Chemistry and Mode of Action

This pre-mix combines Profenofos (IRAC Group 1B, acetylcholinesterase inhibitor) with Cypermethrin (IRAC Group 3A, sodium channel modulator). The combination delivers potent translaminar penetration into leaf tissues while attacking insect nerve pathways at two different physiological sites.

Its ovicidal properties destroy insect egg masses on foliage, halting pest life cycles before larvae can hatch.

  • Bollworm complex: Highly effective against American bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera), pink bollworm, and spotted bollworm in cotton.
  • Chewing caterpillars: Controls tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) and semiloopers across broad-acre field crops.
  • Sucking pest suppression: Helps manage aphids, jassids, and thrips during mixed pest outbreaks.
  • Translaminar penetration: Rapidly penetrates leaf layers to target pests feeding on the underside of leaves.

Application Standards and Field Safety

Proper timing is crucial; application should target newly emerged young larval instars before they bore into squares, bolls, or pods.

Adhering to manufacturer dilution rates and safety intervals ensures thorough pest eradication while preventing crop scorch.

  • Apply using calibrated knapsack or power sprayers equipped with hollow cone nozzles for complete canopy coverage.
  • Wear chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing, face shield, and boots during spray preparation and spraying.
  • Respect the registered pre-harvest interval (PHI) to prevent illegal chemical residues on harvested agricultural produce.

Official source

Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.

Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗

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Common questions

What two active molecules are present in this combination?

The formulation contains Profenofos at 40% (organophosphate) and Cypermethrin at 4% (synthetic pyrethroid) in an emulsifiable concentrate.

Does Profenofos + Cypermethrin kill insect eggs?

Yes, the Profenofos component exhibits potent ovicidal activity, destroying viable insect eggs directly upon contact.

Which crops are officially approved for this insecticide?

It is widely registered for cotton against bollworms and sucking pests, as well as selected field crops per CIBRC approved label clearances.

General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.

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