Brand Name(s): Nix
Generic Name Permethrin
What is permethrin lotion?
PERMETHRIN (Nix® Creme Rinse) is used to treat head lice infestations. It acts by destroying both the lice and their eggs. Permethrin is also used to treat pubic lice. Generic permethrin lotion is available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•asthma
•an unusual or allergic reaction to veterinary or household insecticides
•an unusual or allergic reaction to permethrin, other medicines, chrysanthemums, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Permethrin is for external use only. Do not take by mouth.
For the treatment of head lice: Shampoo your hair with regular shampoo, rinse and towel dry. Do NOT use a shampoo with a conditioner. Shake the permethrin lotion well before applying. Then, apply enough permethrin to your hair to wet the hair and scalp (usually about 2 tablespoons), and thoroughly rub the medicine into your hair and scalp. Make sure you get behind the ears and on the back of the neck. Leave the permethrin lotion on your hair for 10 minutes, unless directed otherwise by your prescriber or health care professional. Then, rinse thoroughly with water. Dry with a clean towel. When your hair is dry, comb it with a fine toothed comb to remove any leftover nits (eggs) or nit shells. If you still have lice after one week, see your prescriber or health care professional. You may need a second treatment.
If you are applying permethrin to another person, wear plastic or disposable gloves to protect yourself from infestation.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply as permethrin is used as a single dose.
What drug(s) may interact with permethrin?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are using any other prescription or nonprescription medicine that is to be applied to the hair and scalp. These may affect the way your medicine works.
What side effects may I notice from using permethrin?
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•itching
•redness or mild swelling of the scalp
•stinging or burning
•tingling sensation
What should I watch for while taking permethrin?
Permethrin is used as a single application treatment. However, if live lice are observed 7 or more days after initial application, a second treatment may be needed.
Keep permethrin lotion away from your eyes. If you accidentally get some in your eyes, rinse your eyes with water right away.
Head lice can be spread from one person to another by direct contact with clothing, hats, scarves, bedding, towels, washcloths, hairbrushes, and combs. Therefore, all members of your household should be examined for head lice and should receive treatment if they are found to be infected. If you have any questions about this, check with your prescriber or health care professional.
To prevent reinfection or spreading of the infection, the following steps should be taken: Machine wash all clothing, bedding, towels, and washcloths in very hot water and dry them using the hot cycle of a dryer for at least 20 minutes. Clothing or bedding that cannot be washed should be dry cleaned or sealed in an airtight plastic bag for 4 weeks. Shampoo any wigs or hairpieces. You should also wash all hairbrushes and combs in very hot soapy water (above 130 degrees F) for 5—10 minutes. Do not share your hairbrushes or combs with other people. Wash all toys in very hot water (above 130 degrees F) for 5—10 minutes or seal in an airtight plastic bag for 2 weeks. Also, clean the house or room by vacuuming furniture, rugs, and floors.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature away from heat and direct light. Do not refrigerate or freeze. After treatment, throw away any unused medicine.
| Available at: www.DrugDigest.org | Last Updated:01/05/2007 |
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