Restricted-use herbicides containing paraquat are marketed under various trade names
Paraquat, the controversial herbicide used for weed and grass control, is classified as a Restricted Use Pesticide with the Danger/Poison signal word because of its high level of acute toxicity to humans.
Research shows that paraquat’s oxidative stress mechanism may damage sensitive areas of the brain. Unfortunately, a loss of function in these sensitive areas could become a cause of Parkinson’s disease as a consequence of paraquat exposure.
In addition to damaging certain brain areas, research has found that mitochondrial dysfunctions were also associated with oxidative stress in patients diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.
Paraquat is commonly sold under the trade name Gramoxone, but the herbicide is also sold under many different names, such as:
- Parazone
- Para-Shot 3.0
- Blanco
- Cyclone SL 2.0
- Firestorm
- Helmquat 3SL
- Bonedry
- Devour
- Gramoxone
- Crisquat
- Dexuron
- Esgram
- Gramuron
- Para-col
- Pillarxone
- Tota-col
- Toxer Total
- PP148
- Gramixel
- AH 501
- Bai Cao Ku
- Paraquat
The active ingredient is also found in formulations with many other herbicides, including Simazine and Diquat dibromide. However, due to the unreasonable risk of developing Parkinson’s disease from paraquat exposure and other serious health risks, at least 32 countries have entirely banned the use of this herbicide, including China, the world’s largest paraquat producer, with more than 100,000 tonnes per year.
However, the use of the product in the United States has actually increased; in recent years, the United States sprayed 7 million pounds of paraquat over nearly 15 million acres of land.
Injured by the toxic herbicide paraquat? We can help you
Dealing with the aftermath of a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be complicated, and regardless of your treatment plan, medical care is expensive. Still, depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, you may be entitled to compensation.
Farmworkers, herbicide applicators, and other individuals with Parkinson’s disease caused by paraquat exposure are eligible to seek compensation for their suffering and other damages through a legal claim.
All claims are reviewed by the team of experts at Environmental Litigation Group, P.C., on a contingency fee basis, which means that we only receive an attorney fee or expenses if a recovery is obtained for you and your family.
