DefinitionThis article discusses the harmful effects from breathing in or swallowing bug spray.This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.Poisonous IngredientThe majority of bug repellents contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) as their active ingredient. It is one of the few insect repellants that work. DEET is recommended to prevent mosquito-born diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and West Nile virus.Other less effective forms of bug sprays contain pyrethrins. Pyrethrins are a pesticide created from the chrysanthemum flower. It is generally considered non-toxic, but it can cause breat