What is the ointment for lice called? - briefly
The medication used to treat head‑lice infestations is typically a pediculicide cream, most often containing 1 % permethrin. It is commonly referred to as permethrin ointment or lice treatment cream.
What is the ointment for lice called? - in detail
The topical preparation used to eradicate head lice is commonly referred to as a pediculicide ointment. Commercially, the most widely recognized formulation contains 1 % permethrin, marketed under names such as Nix Cream and Rid Cream. An alternative active ingredient is pyrethrins, often combined with piperonyl butoxide to enhance potency; products bearing this composition are labeled as pyrethrin‑based ointments.
Key characteristics of the permethrin ointment:
- Active ingredient: Permethrin (synthetic pyrethroid) 1 % w/w.
- Mechanism: Disrupts neuronal sodium channels in lice, causing paralysis and death.
- Application: Apply a thin layer to dry hair, massage into scalp, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Re‑treatment: Recommended after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
- Safety profile: Generally well tolerated; mild skin irritation reported in a small percentage of users.
Alternative formulations:
- Malathion lotion (0.5 %): Organophosphate pediculicide, used when resistance to pyrethroids is suspected.
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion: Non‑neurotoxic, kills lice by asphyxiation; requires a 10‑day treatment course.
Resistance considerations: Repeated use of pyrethrin or permethrin preparations has led to documented resistance in several regions. In such cases, clinicians may prescribe malathion or a combination therapy that includes a mechanical removal method (fine‑tooth combing) alongside chemical treatment.
Adverse effects: Most users experience only transient itching or redness. Systemic toxicity is rare due to minimal dermal absorption. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to any component of the ointment.
In summary, the standard term for the lice‑killing cream is “pediculicide ointment,” with permethrin 1 % cream representing the primary formulation, supplemented by alternative agents such as malathion or benzyl alcohol when resistance or intolerance arises.