Etofenprox is widely used as a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide in both agricultural and public health sectors. It is effective against a broad spectrum of insect pests including mosquitoes, flies, cockroaches, ticks, and various crop-damaging insects such as aphids and leafhoppers. Due to its low mammalian toxicity and lack of irritancy, it is commonly formulated in household insect sprays, mosquito coils, and pet shampoos for flea and tick control.

In agriculture, etofenprox is applied to crops like rice, vegetables, fruits, and tea to protect them from insect infestations. It acts by disrupting the nervous system of insects through sodium channel modulation, leading to paralysis and death. It is favored in integrated pest management programs because it is less harmful to beneficial insects like bees when applied properly and has no known cross-resistance with other pyrethroids.

Etofenprox is also used in public health initiatives for mosquito control to help reduce the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and filariasis. Its residual activity and stability under field conditions make it suitable for indoor residual spraying and treatment of mosquito nets.