Lufenuron is an insect development inhibitor first introduced in the early 1990s as part of a new class of benzoylurea pesticides. It was developed to target insect pests by disrupting chitin synthesis, an essential component of the insect exoskeleton. Initially used in agricultural settings, it quickly gained attention because of its safety profile and selective action on insects. In 1994, lufenuron entered the veterinary field as the active ingredient in flea-control products for pets. Its oral use in dogs and cats marked a major shift toward long-acting, non-neurotoxic flea prevention methods. Over time, lufenuron became widely adopted for integrated pest management strategies. Researchers also explored its potential in aquaculture for controlling parasitic infestations. Continued studies expanded its role in environmental pest control due to its low mammalian toxicity. Despite competition from newer compounds, lufenuron remains an important tool in insect growth regulation. Its development contributed significantly to modern, targeted pest-control approaches.
