What is better to use against lice: Pediculan or another product? - briefly
Pediculan, a 1 % permethrin lotion, works well for most infestations, but increasing resistance makes products containing malathion or ivermectin a more reliable choice in resistant cases. Use the option proven effective against the local lice population.
What is better to use against lice: Pediculan or another product? - in detail
Pediculan contains 1% permethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid that disrupts the nervous system of lice, leading to rapid immobilization. Clinical trials show a single application eliminates 85‑90 % of live insects, with a second treatment after 7–10 days addressing newly hatched nymphs. The formulation includes a moisturizing base that reduces scalp irritation, and it is approved for children over 2 months.
Alternative options fall into three categories:
- Neurotoxic insecticides (e.g., malathion 0.5 %, carbaryl 0.6 %): high immediate kill rates, but resistance to permethrin and related compounds has driven increased use of these agents. Skin sensitization and odor are common drawbacks; malathion requires a 12‑hour exposure period, complicating treatment for young children.
- Physical‑action products (e.g., dimethicone 4 % lotions, silicone‑based sprays): work by coating and suffocating lice without relying on chemical toxicity. Efficacy ranges from 80‑95 % after a single application, with minimal risk of allergic reaction. Re‑infestation rates are comparable to permethrin when proper combing is performed.
- Prescription oral medications (e.g., ivermectin 200 µg/kg): reserved for resistant cases; systemic exposure raises concerns about drug interactions and contraindications in pregnant or lactating patients.
Key considerations when selecting a treatment:
- Resistance profile – In regions where permethrin resistance exceeds 30 %, dimethicone or malathion may provide superior outcomes.
- Age restrictions – Pediculan is labeled for infants older than 2 months; malathion is contraindicated below 6 years, while dimethicone is safe for newborns.
- Application logistics – Permethrin products require a short contact time (10 minutes) and a repeat dose; malathion demands overnight wear; silicone formulations need thorough combing after 30 minutes.
- Adverse‑event risk – Contact dermatitis occurs in up to 5 % of permethrin users; malathion causes skin irritation in 10‑15 %; silicone agents have <1 % reported side effects.
- Cost – Over‑the‑counter permethrin and dimethicone preparations average $10–$15 per treatment; malathion can exceed $20, while prescription ivermectin adds pharmacy fees.
Overall, Pediculan offers a balanced profile of efficacy, safety, and ease of use for most infestations, provided local resistance rates remain low. In settings with documented permethrin resistance or for patients with hypersensitivity to pyrethroids, silicone‑based suffocation agents or, when necessary, alternative neurotoxic or systemic therapies should be considered.