Permethrin Cream

What is Permethrin Cream?

Permethrin cream is an over-the-counter topical medication used to eliminate small insects that infest the skin or hair, including lice and scabies mites, which cause irritation and itching. It contains permethrin, a synthetic insecticide, and is safe for human skin when used correctly.

• 5% cream: Most commonly used for scabies

• 1% lotion or rinse: Used for head lice

Permethrin acts on insects directly and stays largely on the skin surface, with minimal absorption into the body.

Overview & Description

Permethrin is a pyrethroid chemical, derived from natural compounds in chrysanthemums, but enhanced for longer-lasting effectiveness. When applied to the skin, it penetrates the outer layer where the insects reside. The cream adheres well to hair and skin, giving it sufficient time to act.

Unlike older treatments like lindane, permethrin targets the insect nervous system without harming humans.

Uses of Permethrin Cream

• Scabies: Eliminates mites and eggs, relieving itching caused by burrowing mites.

• Head Lice: Treats lice and nits on the scalp.

• Pubic Lice: Sometimes prescribed, with alternative options available.

• Other mite infestations: Safe for those who cannot use oral medications.

Indications

Permethrin is suitable for patients diagnosed with scabies or lice.

• Scabies: Intense nighttime itching, red bumps, or burrows on the skin.

• Lice: Persistent scalp scratching and visible nits near the scalp.

It should only be applied when a confirmed infestation exists.

How Does Permethrin Work?

Permethrin disrupts the insect nervous system by keeping sodium channels open, causing paralysis and death. Human nerve cells recover quickly, making the cream safe for topical use.

Benefits of Permethrin Cream

• Typically effective with one treatment

• Eliminates both mites/lice and eggs

• Safe for infants (≥2 months) and older adults

• Minimal odor and staining

• Reduced interference with other medications

Side Effects

• Common: Redness, itching, stinging, or burning at the application site

• Rare: Swelling, rash, or allergic reactions

• Persistent scabies itch may last weeks due to dead mite and egg reactions

Seek immediate medical attention if severe allergic reactions occur, such as difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or widespread rash.

Drug Interactions

• Minimal systemic absorption means few interactions with oral or injected drugs

• Consult your doctor if using other topical products on the same area

Directions for Use

Scabies (5% cream):

1. Apply to clean, dry skin from neck down, including elbows, fingers, under nails, armpits, groin, buttocks, and soles.

2. For infants and toddlers, include scalp, face, and ears (avoid eyes and mouth).

3. Leave on for 8–14 hours, then rinse thoroughly.

4. Repeat after 1 week if necessary.

Head Lice (1% lotion/rinse):

1. Shampoo, rinse, and towel-dry hair.

2. Apply to saturate scalp and hair, especially behind ears and at neck.

3. Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

4. Remove dead lice and nits with a fine-tooth comb.

5. Repeat after 7 days if required.

When Not to Use

• Allergic to permethrin or pyrethrins

• Open wounds or broken skin unless directed by a doctor

• Infants younger than 2 months without pediatric consultation

• Consult a healthcare provider if you have other serious skin or systemic conditions

Dosage Guidelines

• Scabies: Adults usually need ~30 grams of 5% cream per full-body application; children require less.

• Head Lice: Apply enough 1% lotion/rinse to wet all scalp and hair; avoid under-dosing to ensure effectiveness.

Safety Advice & Precautions

• Use as directed; overuse can cause irritation without increasing efficacy

• Avoid eyes and mouth; rinse immediately if contact occurs

• Wash hands thoroughly after application

• Avoid sharing clothing, towels, or bedding until infestation is eradicated

• Persistent itching does not always indicate treatment failure; see a doctor if symptoms last over 4 weeks

General Instructions & Lifestyle Tips

• Apply to clean, dry skin or hair

• Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water after use

• Treat all close contacts and household members

• Maintain proper hygiene to prevent reinfestation

No special diet is required. Avoid crowded sleeping arrangements and close body contact until treatment is complete.

Comparison with Other Treatments

• Lindane: Neurotoxic; less safe for children and pregnant women

• Malathion lotion: Effective but flammable and pungent

• Crotamiton: Requires multiple days and may be less effective

Permethrin is safe, effective, and convenient, making it a preferred first-line treatment for lice and scabies.

Buy Permethrin Cream

Onco India International is a trusted manufacturer, supplier, wholesaler, and exporter of authentic Permethrin Cream. For inquiries or bulk orders, contact Onco India International directly.