Use and production

Lindane (1α,2α,3β,4α,5α,6β-Hexachlorocyclohexane) has been used as a broad-spectrum insecticide for seed and soil treatment, foliar applications, tree and wood treatment and against ectoparasites in both veterinary and human applications. The production of lindane has decreased rapidly in the last few years and only few countries are still known to produce lindane.

Toxicity and POPs characteristics of lindane

Lindane is listed under Annex A in the Stockholm convention with a specific exemption for use as a human health pharmaceutical for control of head lice and scabies as second line treatment.

Lindane is persistent, bioaccumulates easily in the food chain and bioconcentrates rapidly. There is evidence for long-range transport and toxic effects (immunotoxic, reproductive and developmental effects) in laboratory animals and aquatic organisms.

Alternatives for lindane are generally available, except for use as a human health pharmaceutical to control head lice and scabies. Regulations on the production, use and monitoring of lindane already exist in several countries.