Repelentes no Brasil: caracterização dos ativos e implicações em saúde pública

Abstract

Topical repellent use is an essential measure to reduce the risk of bites and, consequently, the viral transmission of arboviruses, which represent an important public health challenge since they are transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes of the genera Aedes, Culex, and Anopheles, causing diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. This study aimed to conduct a literature review of the main repellent active ingredients available in Brazil, listing their commercial options, advantages, disadvantages, mechanisms of action, and instructions for use. The systematic search identified 28,369 articles in scientific databases, with 38 relevant studies selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. The most frequently found active ingredients were DEET, Icaridin, and IR3535, in addition to natural alternatives such as essential oils of citronella and clove. The analysis showed that DEET offers a longer protection time but with a higher risk of adverse effects; Icaridin presents a balance between efficacy and safety, being indicated even for pregnant women; and IR3535 is recommended for use in children from six months of age. The study also highlighted that correct application of the repellent is crucial for its effectiveness, and users should follow label instructions and avoid excessive or improper use. It is concluded that repellents are effective and safe preventive tools, being fundamental for the control of arboviruses and for the individual protection of the population in endemic areas.