What is available in pharmacies for lice? - briefly
Pharmacies typically stock over‑the‑counter lice remedies such as permethrin 1 % shampoo or lotion, pyrethrin‑based products, dimethicone hair‑removing sprays, and fine‑tooth combs, often paired with soothing conditioners or scalp gels. Prescription alternatives include higher‑strength ivermectin or malathion formulations for resistant infestations.
What is available in pharmacies for lice? - in detail
Pharmacies stock a range of products specifically formulated to eliminate head‑lice infestations. The most common categories include topical insecticides, mechanical removal tools, and adjunctive treatments.
Topical insecticides are sold over the counter and by prescription. Over‑the‑counter options generally contain one of the following active ingredients:
- Permethrin 1 % – a synthetic pyrethroid applied as a shampoo or lotion; leaves a residual effect for up to 10 days and is approved for children older than 2 months.
- Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl‑butoxide – a botanical extract that enhances penetration; available as a rinse; suitable for children older than 6 months.
- Dimethicone (100 %) – a silicone‑based lotion that coats and suffocates lice; non‑neurotoxic; safe for infants from birth and for pregnant or nursing individuals.
- Malathion 0.5 % – a prescription‑only organophosphate; applied as a liquid; recommended for resistant cases; contraindicated in pregnancy and in children under 6 years.
Mechanical tools consist of fine‑toothed combs designed to physically remove live insects and nits from wet hair. Common models feature stainless‑steel or plastic teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm apart. Repeated combing for 7–10 days after chemical treatment increases overall eradication rates.
Adjunctive products support the primary regimen:
- Nit‑removing sprays – contain surfactants that loosen egg shells, facilitating combing.
- Hair‑conditioners with anti‑lice additives – improve detangling and reduce scalp irritation during treatment.
- Protective head‑gear – disposable caps or hats that limit re‑infestation in communal settings.
Prescription‑strength formulations may include:
- Spinosad 0.9 % – a bacterial‑derived insecticide; single‑dose application; effective against resistant strains; approved for children 6 months and older.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % – a topical cream applied for 10 days; used when other agents fail; requires medical supervision.
All products carry specific usage instructions: apply to dry hair, leave for the prescribed duration (typically 10 minutes for permethrin, 8 hours for malathion), then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the application after 7 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice. For mechanical removal, comb hair in sections, cleaning the comb after each pass to prevent re‑depositing eggs.
Safety considerations include checking age limits, avoiding application to broken skin, and observing for adverse reactions such as itching, redness, or respiratory irritation. In cases of hypersensitivity, dimethicone offers a non‑chemical alternative.
Overall, pharmacy inventories provide chemical, mechanical, and supportive options that together enable comprehensive management of head‑lice infestations.