Aldrin/Dieldrin

CAS ID#: 309-00-2, 60-57-1

Affected Organ Systems: Body Weight, Developmental (effects during periods when organs are developing), Gastrointestinal (Stomach and Intestines, part of the digestive system), Hepatic (Liver), Neurological (Nervous System), Reproductive (Producing Children)

Cancer Classification:  Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Pesticides (chemicals used for killing pests, such as rodents, insects, or plants)

Summary: Aldrin and dieldrin are insecticides with similar chemical structures. They are discussed together in this fact sheet because aldrin quickly breaks down to dieldrin in the body and in the environment. Pure aldrin and dieldrin are white powders with a mild chemical odor. The less pure commercial powders have a tan color. Neither substance occurs naturally in the environment From the 1950s until 1970, aldrin and dieldrin were widely used pesticides for crops like corn and cotton. Because of concerns about damage to the environment and potentially to human health, EPA banned all uses of aldrin and dieldrin in 1974, except to control termites. In 1987, EPA banned all uses.

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Page last reviewed: February 10, 2021
Content source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry