How should I use permethrin topical?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
You may have a temporary increase in itching, swelling, or redness of treated skin when you first start using permethrin topical.
Do not take by mouth. This medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not apply to open cuts or wounds. If the medicine gets in your eyes or mouth, rinse with water. Use the surface spray only on household surfaces and not on your skin.
You may need to shake the medicine before each use. Follow the directions on the medicine label.
To treat scabies:
- Clean and dry the skin. Apply a thin layer of this medicine to all body parts from the neck down to the soles of the feet. Rub in completely. Leave the medicine on your skin for 8 to 14 hours, then wash it off completely.
- When using permethrin topical on an infant, also apply the medicine to the scalp, temples, and forehead. Avoid applying near the eyes, nose, mouth, or genitals.
- If your condition does not clear up within 14 days, apply permethrin topical again.
To treat head lice:
- Wash your hair using shampoo only (no conditioner or 2-in-1 shampoo). Rinse thoroughly and towel dry the hair, leaving it damp.
- Protect your eyes with a towel or washcloth. Apply the medicine to completely saturate all hair, and leave it in for 10 minutes. Then rinse with warm water.
- You may also use a nit comb to remove lice eggs from the hair. Your hair should be slightly damp while using a nit comb. Work on only one section of hair at a time, combing through 1 to 2-inch strands from the scalp to the ends.
- Rinse the nit comb often during use. Place removed nits into a sealed plastic bag and throw it into the trash.
- Check the scalp again daily to make sure all nits have been removed.
- If you still see lice 7 days after your first treatment, use a second application.
To treat pubic lice (crabs):
- All sexual partners should be treated.
- Wash and dry the treatment area. Apply permethrin topical to all pubic hair and any surrounding hairs on the thighs and around the anus (avoid areas inside the rectum or vagina).
- Leave the medicine on for 10 minutes. Then work into a lather and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- You may also use a nit comb to remove lice eggs from pubic hair (hair should be slightly damp).
To prevent reinfection, wash all clothing, hats, bed clothes, bed linens, and towels in hot water and dry in high heat. Dry-clean any non-washable clothing. Soak all hair brushes, combs, and hair accessories in hot water for at least 10 minutes.
Use permethrin surface spray to disinfect non-washable items such as:
- furniture;
- mattresses and pillows;
- stuffed toys;
- hats, gloves, and scarves;
- headphones or headbands;
- the inside of a bike helmet; or
- seats and carpets inside your car.
Stuffed toys or pillows that cannot be washed should be sealed in air-tight plastic bags for 4 weeks. After removing from the bag, vigorously shake the item outdoors.
Vacuum all rugs, carpets, and car seats. Then throw away the vacuum cleaner bag.
For the most complete treatment of lice or scabies, you must treat your environment (clothing, bedding, etc) at the same time you treat your hair and/or body.
Store permethrin topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.