Why Does Warfarin Kill Rats?
WouterIn 1950, the commercial rat bait known as warfarin made its debut on the market. It was sold under the brand name d-CON and soon became a staple in homes, offices, schools, and places of worship. EJH argued that, if the drug was good for killing rats, it would also kill humans. Little did he know that his brush with death would ultimately save hundreds of lives.
During the 1950s, researchers found that warfarin was an effective way to control rodent populations. However, the drug had a major drawback: it was not fast-acting. It required several doses to kill a single rat. Furthermore, the rodents were not scared of the bait once they tried it, and kept coming back until they had reached a lethal level. Smaller mammals were less affected by warfarin, so regulators considered it a safer option for humans and pets.
Warfarin is a potent anticoagulant, and is a widely used drug in the United States and Europe. It works by forming blood clots in the vessels of the body. It was first introduced in 1948 for pest control purposes, but it quickly became known as an effective treatment for thrombosis.
However, it can cause serious adverse effects. If not administered properly, it can lead to bleeding, muscle weakness, and even death. It is also a dangerous substance for other animals. As a result, many poisoned rodents are found in houses and attics.
