What is the name of a lice and nit treatment? - briefly
The common over‑the‑counter remedy is a «permethrin»‑based pediculicide, marketed as a lice and nit treatment. It eliminates live lice and inhibits nits from hatching.
What is the name of a lice and nit treatment? - in detail
The term most commonly applied to a product that eliminates head‑lice adults and their eggs is “lice‑and‑nit treatment.” In the United States and many other markets the designation varies by active ingredient and regulatory status.
One‑percent permethrin shampoo, marketed under the brand name «Nix», is the leading over‑the‑counter option. It works by disrupting the nervous system of the insects, killing both lice and unhatched nits after a single application followed by a repeat dose after seven days.
Pyrethrin‑based lotions, such as «Rid», contain natural extracts from chrysanthemum flowers. They are combined with piperonyl‑butoxide to enhance penetration. Recommended use involves a thorough wet‑combing procedure after the lotion is left on the scalp for ten minutes.
Prescription‑only preparations include:
- 0.5 % malathion lotion («Ovide») – organophosphate that requires a 12‑hour exposure before washing.
- 10 % benzyl alcohol lotion («Ulesfia») – non‑neurotoxic, kills lice by asphyxiation; requires a single 10‑minute application.
- 0.5 % ivermectin lotion («Sklice») – macrocyclic lactone that interferes with nerve signalling; single 10‑minute treatment.
- 0.9 % spinosad shampoo («Natroba») – derived from bacterial fermentation; kills lice within five minutes, no repeat dose needed.
A newer class uses silicone‑based compounds, notably dimethicone. Products such as «LiceMD» coat the exoskeleton, immobilising and suffocating the parasites. They are non‑chemical, suitable for resistant populations, and typically require a 10‑minute soak followed by a fine‑toothed comb.
Effectiveness depends on correct application: thorough wet‑combing with a nit comb, adherence to prescribed contact times, and a second treatment after the life cycle of newly hatched lice (approximately seven to ten days). Resistance to pyrethroids has increased in many regions, making dimethicone or spinosad preferable in such cases.
Safety considerations include avoiding treatment on broken skin, observing age restrictions (permethrin and pyrethrin for children six months and older; malathion for children two years and older), and monitoring for rare allergic reactions. Pregnant or nursing individuals should consult a healthcare professional before using prescription agents.
In summary, the recognized names for lice‑and‑nit remedies encompass over‑the‑counter brands like «Nix» and «Rid», prescription options such as «Ovide», «Ulesfia», «Sklice», and «Natroba», and silicone‑based formulations exemplified by «LiceMD». Selection should reflect resistance patterns, age limits, and safety profiles.