🧪 Active Ingredient Profile

Sulfoxaflor

Sulfoximine Insecticide

Sulfoxaflor is a next-generation insecticide that targets the same receptor as neonicotinoids (nicotinic acetylcholine receptor) but with a different binding mechanism. It's effective against many neonicotinoid-resistant pest populations, particularly sap-feeding insects like aphids and whiteflies.

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Classification

Sulfoximine Insecticide

Signal Word

Caution

Mode of Action

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist (sulfoximine subclass) — same target as neonics but different binding site

🎯 Target Pests

Aphids (excellent, including neonicotinoid-resistant strains), whiteflies, plant bugs (Lygus, tarnished plant bug), brown marmorated stink bug, Asian citrus psyllid, leafhoppers. Primarily targets sucking insects. Less effective on chewing insects compared to diamides.

🏷️ Products & Brand Names

Transform WG (Corteva — professional/agricultural), Closer SC (Corteva), Sequoia (professional ornamental). Currently limited to professional and agricultural markets — no major homeowner brands yet.

📋 Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

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Sulfoxaflor — Safety Data Sheet

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📄 Sulfoxaflor — Safety Data Sheet · View the complete SDS document above or download below

📄 CDMS Label & SDS Database 📄 EPA Label Search

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

Low to moderate mammalian toxicity. EPA Reduced Risk designation initially, though pollinator concerns led to modified labeling.

⚠️ Pollinator controversy: Sulfoxaflor's registration has been legally challenged due to bee toxicity concerns. Current labels prohibit application during bloom on bee-attractive crops. The legal status has fluctuated — check current label restrictions before use.

Follow all label directions regarding application timing relative to bloom periods. Do not apply when bees are foraging.

💡 Pro Tips

The neonicotinoid resistance story: Sulfoxaflor was developed specifically to combat neonicotinoid-resistant insect populations. While it targets the same receptor (nAChR), it binds at a different site — meaning insects that have evolved resistance to imidacloprid or thiamethoxam may still be susceptible to sulfoxaflor.

Speed: Sulfoxaflor acts very quickly — affected insects stop feeding within hours and die within 24-48 hours. This rapid feeding cessation is important for virus-vectoring insects like aphids and psyllids.

💡 Did you know? Sulfoxaflor was the first member of the sulfoximine insecticide class, registered in 2013. Its development was driven by the growing problem of neonicotinoid resistance in key agricultural pests, particularly cotton aphids and soybean aphids.

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Reviewed by Derek GiordanoContent reviewed by a licensed pest management professional. Last reviewed: April 2026.