FREE Case Review (866) 588-0600

Is Paraquat Banned in the United States?

Despite it being banned in Europe and many other parts of the world, the dangerous weed killer paraquat is still legal and widely used in the United States. However, due to its toxicity, paraquat is available for use only by commercially licensed users.
Award Logos
Awards & recognition
C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt
Free Consultation
If you or a loved one think you may have a claim, you should contact a personal injury lawyer immediately.

You may be entitled to recover compensation and our legal team can help. Please click the button below for a Free Consultation or call us toll-free 24 hrs/day for legal advice by dialing (866) 588-0600.

Start My Free Case Evaluation

When was Paraquat Restricted in the United States?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) categorized paraquat as a "restricted use" pesticide in 1978. Restricted use of pesticides must be used by or under the direct supervision of a certified applicator, as the chemicals have the potential to cause unreasonable adverse effects to the environment and injury to applicators or bystanders without added restrictions.

Where is Paraquat Banned?

In 2007, the European Union banned the use of paraquat following the results of a study that linked the weed killer to an increased risk for Parkinson’s disease and overall toxicity to humans. Switzerland banned the use of Paraquat in 1989. At least 24 other countries have banned or severely restricted the use of Paraquat due to concerns about its effect on the environment and people’s health.

Related Article: Paraquat Lawsuit Update

What Makes a Pesticide Restricted Use?

Restricted-use pesticides may only be purchased and/or used by certified pesticide applicators who undergo training, testing, and education. Restricted-use products must include a warning on the product labeling which says, "Restricted Use Pesticide."

What Crops is Paraquat Used On?

American farmers and agricultural workers have been using paraquat to control invasive weeds and grasses since the early 1960s. Applicators spray it on commercial crops including corn, soy, and cotton.

How is Paraquat Applied?

Paraquat is also often referred to as Gramoxone (a popular end-use product) and is used to control weeds in many agricultural and non-agricultural settings. It is also used for the desiccation of crops before harvest. Paraquat is sold in concentrated form and is mixed with water and sprayed on crops.

What Does the EPA Say About Paraquat?

in 2019, the U.S. EPA stated that there is “insufficient evidence” to link Paraquat to human health concerns. Following an extensive review, the agency noted in 2020 “there is insufficient evidence to link registered paraquat products to any of the health outcomes investigated, including Parkinson’s Disease, when used according to the label.” This conclusion is strongly disputed by significant scientific evidence.

Is Paraquat the Same as Roundup?

No. Roundup contains the active ingredient glyphosate, which has been linked to an increased risk for cancers such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other serious side effects. Paraquat is a completely different herbicide that has been linked to Parkinson's disease and many other serious health risks.

Related Articles:

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Paraquat is a dangerous herbicide that’s available under several brands and manufactured by many corporations in the US.

If you or your loved one have been exposed to paraquat, you should file a lawsuit.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP lawyers have experience dealing with lawsuits against large organizations. We can help you get the damages you deserve and have an easier life after paraquat exposure.

Contact us today for a free consultation. 

Free Confidential Case Evaluation

Verified 100% Secure SiteTo contact us for a free review of your potential case, please fill out the form below or call us toll free 24 hrs/day by dialing: (866) 588-0600.