PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Permethrin 5% w/w
  (50 mg permethrin per gram of cream) 

Category / Class

• Topical antiparasitic medication
• Scabicide / pediculicide
• Synthetic pyrethroid insecticide

Use / Indications

Used for:

• Scabies infestation
• Treatment of mites (Sarcoptes scabiei)
• Sometimes used off-label for resistant lice infestations (drugs.com)

Mechanism of Action

Permethrin disrupts sodium channel function in parasite nerve cell membranes, causing paralysis and death of mites and their eggs.

Direction of Use

For scabies treatment:

• Apply thin layer to entire body from neck down
• In infants/elderly, may also apply to scalp/hairline as directed
• Leave on skin for 8–14 hours (usually overnight)
• Wash off thoroughly afterward

Instructions:

• Apply to clean, dry skin
• Pay attention to:
• Finger webs
• Under nails
• Groin
• Soles of feet
• Usually single application is effective
• Repeat after 7–14 days if necessary
• Wash clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water (drugs.com)

Common Side Effects

• Mild burning or stinging
• Itching
• Redness
• Tingling/numbness
• Rash
• Dry skin

Important note:

• Itching may continue for several weeks after successful treatment due to allergic reaction to dead mites.

Serious Side Effects

Seek medical attention if patient develops:

• Severe skin irritation
• Swelling
• Breathing difficulty
• Severe allergic reaction
• Worsening rash/infection

Warnings

Do NOT use in:

• Allergy to permethrin, pyrethroids, or chrysanthemums

Important warnings:

• For external use only
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes
• Do not swallow
• Overuse may irritate skin

Drug Interactions

• Significant systemic drug interactions are uncommon due to minimal absorption
• Use cautiously with:
• Other topical irritant medications
• Steroid creams unless prescribed

Cautions

• Treat close household contacts simultaneously when appropriate
• Reinfection can occur from untreated contacts or contaminated bedding
• Fingernails should be trimmed short
• Use cautiously in infants under 2 months
• Safe use in pregnancy usually considered acceptable under medical advice