What is the name of the ointment for head lice? - briefly
The standard over‑the‑counter treatment is a 1 % permethrin cream, sold under the brand name Nix. (Prescription options include malathion lotion.)
What is the name of the ointment for head lice? - in detail
The commonly recommended topical preparation for treating head‑lice infestation is a 1 % permethrin cream or lotion, marketed under brand names such as Nix and LiceFreee. Permethrin belongs to the pyrethroid class, acting on the nervous system of lice to cause paralysis and death. The formulation is applied to dry hair, left for ten minutes, then rinsed thoroughly; a repeat application after seven days eliminates any newly hatched insects.
Alternative products contain 0.5 % pyrethrins combined with piperonyl butoxide, sold as Rid or Pronto. These agents also disrupt nerve function but require a longer exposure time, typically fifteen minutes, before rinsing. Both types are approved for use in children six months of age and older, with dosage adjusted for infants under two years.
Key considerations:
- Active ingredient: permethrin 1 % or pyrethrins + piperonyl butoxide 0.5 %
- Age restriction: ≥ 6 months (permethrin); ≥ 2 years (pyrethrins)
- Application time: 10 min (permethrin) or 15 min (pyrethrins)
- Repeat treatment: 7 days after initial use
- Side effects: mild scalp irritation, itching, redness; rare allergic reactions
Prescription‑only options include malathion 0.5 % lotion (Ovide) for resistant cases. Malathion works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, leading to paralysis. It is applied for eight hours before washing and is suitable for children older than six years.
Choosing the appropriate ointment depends on age, resistance patterns, and tolerance. Permethrin remains the first‑line choice due to proven efficacy, safety profile, and widespread availability.