fluvalinate

Fluvalinate is a synthetic pyrethroid acaricide used in animal health for the control of parasitic mite infestations in honey bee colonies, most notably the *Varroa destructor* (Varroa mite). Originally developed for agricultural use, the tau-isomer (tau-fluvalinate) was specifically registered for apiculture due to its high efficacy against mites and relatively low toxicity to honey bees at therapeutic doses. Nihon Nohyaku registered the product in Japan in 1992. The drug acts as a neurotoxin by targeting voltage-gated sodium channels in the nerve membranes of the mites. It binds to these channels and prevents them from closing, which leads to a prolonged influx of sodium ions, resulting in repetitive nerve firing, paralysis, and eventual death of the parasite. In a hive setting, it is typically administered via impregnated polymer strips that provide a sustained release of the active ingredient as bees crawl over them and distribute the chemical throughout the colony via social contact.

Brand names

Apistan

Other names

tau-fluvalinateMavrikKlartan