Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Permethrin
Permethrin
Mechanism of action
Permethrin keeps sodium channels opened for prolonged periods,
thus delaying repolarization, resulting in paralysis of
scabies.
Clinical use
Permethrin is a safer alternative to lindane. It is available over
the counter as a lotion and cream rinse and is available with a
prescription in a more concentrated cream formulation.
Unfortunately, permethrin may not kill lice eggs, called nits.
Nits are best removed with special combs. Permethrin may be
applied again 2 weeks after initial use, but excessive application
contributes to lice resistance (which may be as high as
50% to 98%).
Adverse effects
Permethrin is contraindicated in patients allergic to ragweed
and chrysanthemums. Irritation at the site of application
may occur.
Benzyl Alcohol