How can lice be eliminated using a prescription? - briefly
Prescription lice eradication relies on topical insecticides such as 1% permethrin or 0.5% malathion, applied to dry hair and left for the recommended duration before rinsing, then repeated after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched nymphs; thorough removal of remaining eggs with a fine-toothed comb is essential for complete clearance.
How can lice be eliminated using a prescription? - in detail
Prescription medications provide the most reliable method for eradicating head‑lice infestations. The primary agents approved for oral use are ivermectin and oral milbemycin oxime. Ivermectin tablets, typically 200 µg/kg, are administered as a single dose; a second dose may be given after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial treatment. Oral milbemycin oxime, usually combined with a broad‑spectrum parasite control product, follows a similar dosing schedule and is effective against resistant strains.
Topical prescription options include benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion, spinosad 0.9 % suspension, and permethrin 1 % cream rinse. Benzyl alcohol acts by asphyxiating lice; a 10‑minute application covers the scalp, after which the product is rinsed and the hair is dried. Spinosad disrupts the nervous system of the parasite; it remains on the hair for 10 minutes before removal. Permethrin interferes with nerve impulses, requiring a 10‑minute exposure followed by thorough rinsing. All topical agents must be applied to dry hair, ensuring complete coverage from scalp to hair tips.
Effective use demands strict adherence to the following steps:
- Verify the prescription and dosage with a healthcare professional.
- Read the medication label for specific application instructions.
- Apply the product precisely as directed; avoid excessive amounts.
- Repeat the treatment on the recommended interval to eliminate any surviving eggs.
- Inspect the scalp 24 hours after each application; remove dead insects with a fine-tooth comb if necessary.
- Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
Safety considerations include contraindications for pregnant or nursing individuals, children under the approved age, and patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredients. Common adverse effects are mild scalp irritation, itching, or transient redness; systemic agents may cause nausea, dizziness, or mild abdominal discomfort.
Resistance monitoring is essential. If a prescribed product fails to achieve complete eradication after two treatment cycles, a clinician should consider switching to an alternative class of medication, possibly combining oral and topical therapies.
Follow‑up evaluation by a medical professional confirms successful clearance and provides guidance on preventive measures, such as avoiding head-to-head contact and regular inspection of hair during outbreak periods.