A closer look at what goes into treatment
The substances found in some topical prescription and over-the-counter products
can produce results, but they may be harmful if not used according to the directions
on their labels. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional prior
to seeking treatment. Read more below.
Benzyl Alcohol
Currently marketed as UlesfiaTM Lotion
What you should know
Benzyl Alcohol:20,21
- Is available in prescription lotions to treat head lice
- Is generally well tolerated but may cause eye irritation
- Requires a second treatment in 7 days
- Kills lice by asphyxiation
- Requires up to 48 oz. of lotion per treatment
Lindane
Currently available by prescription only
What you should know
Lindane:5,22
- Is available by prescription only as a shampoo used to treat head lice
- Is an organochlorine
- Contains an FDA warning label that recommends this product for patients who have
failed first-line treatment with safer medications
Malathion
Currently marketed in products such as Ovide® Lotion
What you should know
Malathion:5,19
- Is available by prescription only as a lotion to treat head lice
- Is an organophosphate
- Is flammable
- Must be left on hair for 8-12 hours
- Has been shown to be irritate the skin and scalp
Permethrin
Currently marketed in products such as Nix®
What you should know
Permethrin:5,21,23,24
- Is available in over-the-counter shampoos or conditioners to treat head lice
- Is currently the preferred treatment for head lice
- Is synthetically derived from natural pyrethrins
- Is safe and effective when used as directed
- Requires combing after treatment to remove nits
- Is toxic to cats
- May require multiple treatments
- Is associated with head lice resistance
Pyrethrin
Currently marketed in products such as Pronto® Plus, RID®, A-200
What you should know
Pyrethrin:1,2,5,23,25
- Is available in over-the-counter shampoos and conditioners to treat head lice
- Is safe and effective when used as directed
- Requires a second treatment in 10 days
- Requires combing after treatment
- May cause scalp itching or redness
- Is associated with head lice resistance
UlesfiaTM is a trademark of Sciele Pharma. Inc.
OVIDE® is a trademark of Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. and/or its affiliates.
Nix® is a trademark of Insight Pharmaceuticals.
Pronto® Plus is a trademark of Del Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
RID® is a trademark of Bayer HealthCare LLC.
A-200® is a trademark of Hogil Pharmaceutical Corp.
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