How to treat lice with dichlorvos? - briefly
Apply a dichlorvos‑containing shampoo or spray to dry hair, leave it on for the time specified on the product label, then rinse thoroughly; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched lice. Follow all safety precautions, including wearing gloves and ventilating the area, to minimize exposure to the insecticide.
How to treat lice with dichlorvos? - in detail
Dichlorvos, an organophosphate insecticide, is applied to eliminate head‑lice infestations through direct contact with the insects and their eggs. The compound acts by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, causing paralysis and death of the parasite. Effective use requires strict adherence to dosage, exposure time, and safety precautions.
The treatment protocol includes the following steps:
- Preparation of the solution – Dilute the commercial concentrate to the concentration recommended by the manufacturer, typically 0.1 % to 0.5 % w/v. Use a calibrated measuring device to ensure accuracy.
- Application to the scalp – Saturate the hair and scalp with the diluted mixture, ensuring full coverage of all hair shafts and skin. A fine‑mist sprayer or a soaked comb can provide uniform distribution.
- Contact period – Maintain the solution on the hair for the specified duration, usually 10–15 minutes. During this interval, avoid rinsing, drying, or applying other products.
- Rinsing – After the contact time, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Remove residual chemical by washing with a mild, non‑medicated shampoo if desired.
- Post‑treatment inspection – Examine the hair under a magnifying lens 24 hours after application. Remove any surviving nymphs or eggs with a fine‑toothed nit comb.
- Repeat dosing – Conduct a second application 7–10 days later to target newly hatched lice that survived the initial exposure.
Safety considerations are mandatory:
- Personal protective equipment – Wear gloves and eye protection while handling the concentrate.
- Ventilation – Perform the procedure in a well‑ventilated area to minimize inhalation risk.
- Age restrictions – Do not use on children under 2 years or on individuals with known hypersensitivity to organophosphates.
- Pregnancy and lactation – Avoid exposure for pregnant or nursing persons unless a medical professional explicitly authorizes it.
- Environmental disposal – Dispose of leftover solution and contaminated materials according to local hazardous waste regulations.
Potential adverse effects include scalp irritation, itching, or transient burning sensation. If symptoms persist beyond 30 minutes, rinse the scalp immediately with copious water and seek medical advice.
Monitoring for reinfestation is essential. Conduct weekly checks for at least four weeks after the final application. Persistent presence of live lice indicates possible resistance, incorrect dosage, or inadequate coverage, necessitating alternative therapeutic agents.
In summary, successful eradication of head‑lice using dichlorvos depends on precise formulation, thorough application, adherence to recommended exposure times, and rigorous follow‑up. Compliance with safety guidelines protects both the treated individual and surrounding persons from toxic exposure.