Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of lice.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of pubic (“crab”) lice.īoth topical and oral ivermectin have been used successfully to treat lice however, only topical ivermectin lotion currently is approved by the U.S. Malathion* lotion 0.5% (Ovide*) is a prescription medication that can kill lice and some lice eggs however, malathion lotion (Ovide*) currently has not been approved by the U.S. Lindane should not be used to treat premature infants, persons with a seizure disorder, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, persons who have very irritated skin or sores where the lindane will be applied, infants, children, the elderly, and persons who weigh less than 110 pounds. Lindane can be toxic to the brain and other parts of the nervous system its use should be restricted to patients who have failed treatment with or cannot tolerate other medications that pose less risk. However, lindane is not recommended as a first-line therapy. Lindane shampoo is a prescription medication that can kill lice and lice eggs. These medications are safe and effective when used exactly according to the instructions in the package or on the label.
These products are available over-the-counter without a prescription at a local drug store or pharmacy. A lice-killing lotion containing 1% permethrin or a mousse containing pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide can be used to treat pubic (“crab”) lice.
