How to eliminate lice with which medication? - briefly
Use FDA‑approved pediculicides—permethrin 1 % cream rinse or pyrethrin‑based shampoos—for typical infestations; for resistant lice, prescribe oral ivermectin or a single‑application spinosad 0.9 % lotion. These agents eradicate both live insects and newly hatched nymphs when applied as directed.
How to eliminate lice with which medication? - in detail
Effective eradication of head lice requires a medication that kills both live insects and their eggs, applied according to precise instructions. The most reliable agents fall into three categories: over‑the‑counter (OTC) pediculicides, prescription‑only formulations, and non‑chemical alternatives that complement chemical treatment.
OTC products are widely available and include:
- 1 % permethrin cream rinse – applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; a second application after 7–10 days targets newly hatched nymphs.
- Pyrethrin‑based sprays combined with piperonyl‑butoxide – used similarly to permethrin; resistance has reduced efficacy in some regions.
- Dimethicone or silicone‑based lotions – coat insects, preventing respiration; require thorough saturation of hair and a 10‑minute dwell time, followed by a repeat after 7 days.
Prescription options provide alternatives when resistance to OTC agents is documented:
- 5 % benzyl alcohol lotion – applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat treatment after 7 days; unsuitable for infants under 6 months.
- 0.5 % ivermectin lotion – applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes; a single application often suffices, though a second dose after 7 days may be advised for heavy infestations.
- 0.5 % malathion solution – applied to dry hair, left for 8–12 hours; requires a second treatment after 7 days; contraindicated for pregnant or nursing individuals.
- 0.9 % spinosad suspension – applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat after 7 days if live lice remain.
Non‑chemical measures enhance success:
- Wet combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb after applying a conditioner; repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Removal of infested items (bedding, hats, brushes) by washing in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or sealing in plastic bags for two weeks.
- Use of silicone‑based hair products that suffocate lice; they can be combined with a pediculicide to improve coverage.
Key procedural points:
- Follow the exact exposure time indicated on the product label; shortening the duration reduces efficacy.
- Perform a second application 7–10 days after the first, regardless of the agent, to eliminate eggs that survived the initial treatment.
- After treatment, inspect hair under bright light; live lice or viable nymphs indicate the need for retreatment.
- Monitor for adverse reactions such as scalp irritation, redness, or allergic response; discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms develop.
Selecting an appropriate medication depends on age, allergy history, and local resistance patterns. Permethrin remains first‑line for most children over two years, while ivermectin or spinosad are preferred when resistance is confirmed. Prescription benzyl alcohol offers a non‑neurotoxic option for younger children. Combining chemical treatment with diligent combing and environmental decontamination maximizes the probability of complete eradication.