Permethrin
Conditions Treated
Permethrin kills parasites and their eggs. It is used to treat scabies (a skin infestation) and lice infestations of the head, body, and pubic area ('crabs'). Permethrin does not prevent these infestations.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Permethrin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- skin irritation
- rash
- redness
- swelling
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
Permethrin comes in a cream and liquid (cream rinse) to use externally. Usually, one application of permethrin completely eliminates the parasites. However, the treatment may need to be repeated after 1 week; call your doctor if signs of infestation (live parasites) reappear. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use permethrin exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than directed by your doctor. Wear rubber gloves when applying it if you have open cuts or scratches on your hands. If this medication accidentally gets in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water for at least 5 minutes. If you are to use the liquid, follow these steps:
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before using permethrin, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to permethrin or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Elimite®
- Nix® Creme Rinse
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Permethrin is for external use only. Do not let permethrin get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you. After using permethrin, machine-wash (or dry clean) all clothing, bed linen, and towels that you have used in the last 2 days. Use hot water. Dry everything in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes. Thoroughly clean all bathtubs, showers, and toilets in your home with rubbing alcohol. You may have transmitted the parasites to family members and close contacts (including sexual contacts); advise them to see a doctor if they develop symptoms of infestation. If you have scabies and your skin has become sensitive to the parasite, itching may persist for several weeks after the treatment. However, this itching does not mean that the treatment was a failure. Call your doctor if you have questions. Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about permethrin. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.