What it is used for
- Scabies
- Head lice
- Pubic lice
How it works
Permethrin paralyses and kills mites and lice and their eggs, clearing the infestation from the skin and hair.
How it is taken
Comes as a skin cream for scabies and a creme rinse or lotion for lice. Apply over the body or to the hair exactly as the label or your clinician directs, leave it on for the stated time, then wash it off. A second application after a number of days is often needed; close contacts and bedding/clothing usually need treating too.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Mild burning, stinging or tingling of the skin
- Itching or redness, which can continue for a while after the mites are gone
- Temporary numbness or rash at the site
Serious effects — get help
- Severe skin irritation, swelling or blistering
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling, widespread rash or difficulty breathing
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other lotions or creams applied at the same time may reduce its effect
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and before using on young children
- Itching can persist for a couple of weeks after successful treatment and does not always mean it failed
- Treat household and sexual contacts and wash bedding and clothing as advised to prevent reinfestation
- Avoid the eyes and inside the nose and mouth