What is the treatment for lice called? - briefly
The treatment is referred to as a pediculicide, typically applied as a lice shampoo, lotion, or cream to eradicate head‑lice infestations. It may also include a fine‑tooth comb for removing nits after the chemical application.
What is the treatment for lice called? - in detail
The therapeutic agents used to eradicate head‑lice infestations are collectively referred to as pediculicides. These products contain insecticidal chemicals that target the nervous system of Pediculus humanus capitis, leading to rapid paralysis and death of the parasite.
Commonly available pediculicides include:
- Permethrin 1 % – synthetic pyrethroid, first‑line over‑the‑counter option.
- Pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide – botanical extract enhanced by a synergist.
- Malathion 0.5 % – organophosphate, reserved for resistant cases.
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion – non‑neurotoxic, suffocates lice.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion – macrocyclic lactone, prescription‑only in many regions.
- Spinosad 0.9 % – derived from bacterial fermentation, effective against resistant strains.
In addition to chemical treatment, mechanical removal methods are integral to comprehensive management:
- Wet combing – fine‑toothed nit comb applied to damp hair, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Manual extraction – use of forceps or specialized tools to pull live lice and eggs.
- Environmental control – washing bedding and clothing at ≥ 60 °C, vacuuming upholstered surfaces, and sealing non‑washable items in sealed bags for two weeks.
Prescription regimens may combine oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg single dose) with topical agents for severe or recurrent infestations. Resistance monitoring is essential; treatment failure often indicates the presence of resistant lice, prompting a switch to an alternative class of pediculicide.
Effective eradication requires adherence to product instructions, thorough application to the scalp and hair shaft, and completion of the full treatment cycle, typically 7–10 days, to eliminate newly hatched nymphs that survive the initial dose.