What to take for lice? - briefly
Use a 1 % permethrin shampoo or lotion, apply according to the package directions, then comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to eliminate remaining eggs. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days and launder clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water.
What to take for lice? - in detail
Effective treatment of head‑lice infestations relies on a combination of topical agents, mechanical removal, and environmental hygiene.
Topical pediculicides are the primary option. Over‑the‑counter products contain either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrins combined with a piperonyl‑butoxide synergist. Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. Prescription alternatives include malathion (0.5 %), benzyl alcohol lotion (5 %), ivermectin lotion (0.5 %), and spinosad (0.9 %). These agents are used when resistance to first‑line treatments is suspected or when OTC options fail.
Mechanical removal complements chemical therapy. A fine‑toothed nit comb, used on wet, conditioned hair, extracts live lice and eggs. Perform combing at least twice a day for a week; repeat after seven days to capture newly hatched nymphs.
Environmental control reduces re‑infestation risk. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and tumble dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove stray nits.
Safety considerations:
- Follow age restrictions on each product; some pediculicides are not approved for children under two months.
- Avoid use on broken or irritated scalp; discontinue if severe irritation occurs.
- Do not combine multiple chemical treatments without professional guidance.
A typical management plan includes:
- Apply an approved topical agent according to label instructions.
- Comb hair with a nit comb immediately after treatment and repeat for several days.
- Launder or isolate personal items and clean living areas.
- Re‑treat after seven days to eliminate any surviving eggs.
Consult a healthcare professional if the infestation persists after two treatment cycles or if there are concerns about allergies, pregnancy, or young children.