Ethyl Butylacetylaminopropionate

Allopathic
Indications

Approved Indications:

  • Insect Repellent:
    Indicated for topical use to repel mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, midges, and other biting insects.
  • Prevention of Insect-borne Diseases:
    Used to reduce risk of insect bites that may transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, Lyme disease, and Zika virus.

Off-label / Clinically Accepted Uses:

  • Repellent for use in outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and military applications.
  • Protection against nuisance insects to prevent allergic reactions or secondary infections.
Dosage & Administration

Route of Administration: Topical application on exposed skin and/or clothing.

Dosage Instructions:

  • Apply evenly to exposed skin and clothing avoiding eyes, mouth, and open wounds.
  • Use as needed for protection; reapply every 4–8 hours depending on exposure and product formulation.
  • Avoid excessive application; use a thin, uniform layer.
  • Wash off with soap and water after returning indoors or before sleep.

Special Populations:

  • Children:
    Safe for children over 2 months (product-specific), apply sparingly. Avoid hands and face to prevent ingestion or eye contact.
  • Pregnant and Lactating Women:
    Use only if necessary; apply minimal effective amount.
  • Elderly:
    No dosage adjustment; apply per standard guidelines.
  • Renal/Hepatic Impairment:
    Not systemically absorbed; no dose modification needed.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Ethyl Butylacetylaminopropionate acts as an insect repellent by interfering with the insect’s olfactory receptors, masking the human scents and carbon dioxide cues that attract blood-feeding insects. This chemical camouflage reduces insect landing and biting, thereby preventing insect bites without killing the insects. The compound’s low volatility ensures prolonged protection on the skin surface.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption through intact skin.
  • Distribution: No systemic distribution due to topical use.
  • Metabolism: Not significantly metabolized systemically.
  • Elimination: Primarily eliminated by washing off the skin or natural skin shedding.
  • Onset: Immediate repellent effect upon application.
  • Duration: Protection lasts typically 4–8 hours depending on formulation and environmental conditions.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy:
    No formal FDA pregnancy category assigned. Topical use is considered low risk due to minimal systemic absorption. Recommended only if necessary.
  • Lactation:
    Considered safe with minimal systemic exposure. Avoid application on breasts to prevent infant ingestion.
Therapeutic Class
  • Primary Class: Topical Insect Repellent
  • Subclass: Synthetic repellent agent (non-DEET)
Contraindications
  • Known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to Ethyl Butylacetylaminopropionate or formulation excipients.
  • Application on irritated, damaged, or broken skin.
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and lips.
Warnings & Precautions
  • Avoid ingestion: Toxic if swallowed.
  • Eye Contact: May cause irritation; rinse immediately if contact occurs.
  • Skin Sensitivity: Rare cases of contact dermatitis reported; discontinue use if rash or irritation develops.
  • Flammability: Avoid use near open flames or high heat sources.
  • Children: Use sparingly and avoid application on hands or near mouth.
  • Do not apply under clothing to avoid prolonged skin exposure and irritation.
Side Effects

Common Adverse Effects:

  • Mild skin irritation or redness
  • Transient burning or stinging sensation upon application
  • Occasional dry skin or itching

Rare Side Effects:

  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Eye irritation on accidental exposure
Drug Interactions
  • No known systemic drug interactions due to minimal absorption.
  • Avoid simultaneous use with other topical products that may cause skin irritation.
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • WHO endorses Ethyl Butylacetylaminopropionate (IR3535) as a safe and effective alternative to DEET, especially for use in children and sensitive populations.
  • Recent guidelines emphasize its use in integrated vector management strategies in malaria-endemic regions.
  • Regulatory agencies continue to recommend proper labeling on safe use and reapplication intervals.
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Protect from heat, flames, and direct sunlight due to flammable solvent base.
  • Keep container tightly closed and out of reach of children.
  • Do not freeze; store in a dry place.