Permethrin for scabies
Article Abstract:
Permethrin, a synthetic chemical used to treat lice and protect against mosquitoes and ticks, has been approved in a 5 percent cream for treating scabies, the infestation with the insect Sarcoptes scabiei. The drug kills lice, mites, and other insects by interfering with the uptake of sodium into the nerves of insects, thereby adversely affecting nerve impulse transmission. In mammals, permethrin is not well absorbed into the skin, and is rapidly broken down and excreted in the urine. Although scabies was commonly treated with lindane, insects have developed resistance to its insecticide effects. In addition, lindane has been reported to cause seizure and death in children after its overuse, exposure to damaged skin, and accidental ingestion. Other agents used to treat scabies include topical preparations or ointments of crotamiton and sulfur. Various studies have shown that 5 percent permethrin is as effective as lindane lotion and more effective than crotamiton cream in treating scabies. Adverse effects of permethrin include worsening of itching, edema or fluid accumulation, and redness, in addition to burning, stinging, and to a lesser extent, rash, numbness, and tingling. The drug is applied as a cream for 8 to 14 hours. The dose and cost of permethrin are described. Since it is safer than lindane, permethrin is considered the drug of choice in treating scabies. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1990
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Differential Permethrin Susceptibility of Head Lice Sampled in the United States and Borneo
Article Abstract:
Pyrethroid formulas with permethrin seem to be effective against head lice (Pediculus capitis) on children who have not been previously treated, but lice become resistant after treatment and permethrin loses its effectiveness on children who have been previously treated. Tests on children in Sabah, Borneo where permethrin has not been marketed, proved that pediculide to be highly effective. Similar tests in the United States showed that the head lice lived longer after application, probably a result of loss of susceptibility from earlier applications. However, use of stronger doses is not recommended, as they could be harmful to the child.
Publication Name: Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1072-4710
Year: 1999
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
The adherent cylindrical nit structure and its chemical denaturation in vitro: an assessment with therapeutic implications for head lice
Article Abstract:
The structure of the nits left by head lice consists of complex carbohydrates, meaning that it may be possible to remove these nits by chemical means. As of the present, however, mechanical combing is still the only successful method. Because no substance in use is 100% effective against head lice, schools do not allow the return of children with nits still present in their hair. Tests were made with WD-40, vinegar, acetone, vodka, petrolatum, Clear topical lice egg remover, liquid nitrogen and other substances.
Publication Name: Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1072-4710
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Secrecy in science: the flock worker's lung investigation. Medical scientists and health news reporting: a case of miscommunication
- Abstracts: University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center restructure is health care system for the 21st century. Care management: The right balance of care and management?
- Abstracts: Pediatric clinical clerkships are associated with an excess risk of acute infection. The Art of Precepting
- Abstracts: Improving adherence to hormone replacement therapy with effective patient-physician communication. Psychosexual effects of menopause: role of androgens
- Abstracts: Using the biographical approach. Discharging patients with burn injuries. Eye contact