Novaluron is an insecticide of the benzoylphenyl urea class that inhibits chitin synthesis, affecting the moulting stages of insect development. It acts by ingestion and contact, and causes abnormal endocuticular deposition and abortive moulting. Novaluron has been registered as an insecticide for food crops and ornamentals in a number of countries. WHO has assessed novaluron for use as a mosquito larvicide in drinking-water in containers, particularly to control dengue fever. The recommended dosage of novaluron in potable water in containers should not exceed 0.05 mg/litre under the WHO Pesticides Evaluation Scheme.