Over-the-Counter and Prescription Strength Pesticides
The CDC has an online database of FDA approved pediculicides. One advantage of pediculicides is that they are readily available at most pharmacies. One of the drawbacks is that lice are evolving a resistance to many of the chemicals, as reported by the following news outlets:
MSNBC
US Pharmacist
NewScientist
Another major drawback is that, according to data published by the Center for Disease Control. Re-treatment of head lice usually is recommended because no approved pediculicides is completely ovicidal. In other words, none of the pesticides approved by the FDA are completely effective in killing the nits (lice eggs). Also, pesticides are designed to kill living organisms and involve some health risk to humans exposed to them. See Lindane Alternatives
*In general the following shampoos are to be applied twice, with the second treatment scheduled 7 to 10 days after the first application. In addition to the shampoo, a manual combing is also recommended to remove the nits. The total time for each treatment takes between 1 to 2 hours.
*For more specific treatment instructions click on the treatment links below each shampoo.
(The following pediculocides are deemed safe and effective by the FDA when used as directed, with the exception of Lindane.)
Over-the-Counter Medications
Pyrethrins combined with piperonyl butoxide.
The active ingredient comes from the chrysanthemum flower, and generally should not be used by persons who are allergic to chrysanthemums or ragweed.
A-200
Treatment Discontinued by manufacturer
Pronto Plus
Treatment
R&C
Treatment
Rid
Treatment
Triple X
Treatment
Permethrins
Synthetic pyrethroid similar to naturally occurring pyrethrins. In other words, these mimic the structure of pyrethins. Permethrins are safe and effective when used as directed.
Nix
Treatment
Kwellada
Treatment
Prescription Medications
Malathion Lotion
Malathion is an organophosphate which is an insecticide or nerve agent that acts on the enzymes of head lice, disrupting their brain and nervous systems.
Treatment must be left on the head for at least eight hours. A comb out is recommended to remove dead lice and the nits.
Ovide
Treatment
Lindane
The FDA cautions users about Lindane Shampoo, pointing out that Lindane is a poison if not used correctly. Lindane Shampoo seeps through the skin and can affect the brain and nerves and cause seizures. It should only be used in patients who cannot tolerate, or have failed, first-line treatment with safer medications. Lindane is not to be applied twice. Lindane has been banned for agricultural uses in the U.S.
|
