Which combination of chemical pesticides is considered most effective for bed bugs?

The combination of pyrethroid insecticides and neonicotinoids is considered most effective for managing bed bugs due to their distinct modes of action and effectiveness against resistant populations. Pyrethroids are known for their rapid knockdown effect and ability to disrupt the nervous system of insects, making them highly effective for immediate control.

Neonicotinoids, on the other hand, target the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in insects, providing a secondary mode of action that can be useful, especially against bed bug populations that have developed resistance to pyrethroids. This dual-action approach enhances the likelihood of controlling the pests effectively, minimizing the chances of survival and reproduction.

While other combinations, such as insect growth regulators with pyrethroids, can also be useful in an integrated pest management strategy, the combination of pyrethroids and neonicotinoids offers both immediate knockdown and prolonged efficacy, making it a well-rounded strategy against bed bug infestations.