Permethrin cream 5% is a topical treatment that kills scabies mites and crab lice by disrupting their nervous system, providing fast relief from itching and rash.
Permethrin cream 5% is a topical medication applied directly to the skin to treat scabies and crab lice infestations. Its active ingredient, permethrin, is a synthetic insecticide that targets the nervous system of mites and lice, causing paralysis and death. The cream is formulated to be gentle on human skin while highly effective against parasites.
The treatment is straightforward to use and usually requires only one application for full effect. For scabies, the cream should be applied all over the body from the neck down and left on for 8 to 12 hours. For crab lice, it is applied to the affected pubic area and left on for 24 hours. This ensures that both adult parasites and their eggs are destroyed.
Key features of Permethrin cream 5% include:
Effective against both scabies mites and crab lice
Suitable for adults and children over two months old
Usually requires a single application
Minimal side effects when used as directed
Available in convenient 30g tubes for easy dosing
Additional information
Quantity
1 x 30g, 2 x 30g, 3 x 30g, 4 x 30g, 5 x 30g, 6 x 30g
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Everything you need to know about permethrin cream 5% for treating scabies and crab lice
Permethrin cream 5% is a highly effective topical treatment used to eliminate scabies mites and crab lice, the pesky parasites that cause intense itching and uncomfortable skin rashes. This cream works by disrupting the nervous system of these parasites, killing both adults and their eggs to stop the infection in its tracks. Suitable for adults and children over two months, Permethrin cream 5% offers a simple, usually single-application solution to these common skin conditions.
Key takeaways
Permethrin cream 5% kills scabies mites and crab lice by disrupting their nervous system [1], [2].
It is suitable for adults and children over two months old, with younger children needing medical supervision [2], [3].
The cream is typically left on for 8 to 12 hours (scabies) or 24 hours (lice) before washing off [1], [4].
Side effects are usually mild and temporary, including skin irritation or increased itching [3].
Always follow application instructions carefully to ensure full effectiveness and prevent reinfestation [1], [4].
Overview of permethrin cream 5%
Highly effective against scabies and crab lice
Suitable for adults and children over two months
Usually a single application is enough
Mild and temporary side effects
Available in practical 30g tubes
Permethrin cream 5% is widely recommended because it reliably kills the parasites causing scabies and crab lice. Its ease of use and single-application regimen make it convenient for patients managing these infections at home.
The cream works by targeting the nervous system of the mites and lice, quickly relieving the intense itching and rash that come with infestation. It is safe for use in young children, provided medical advice is sought for infants under two months.
Because the cream kills both the parasites and their eggs, it helps prevent reinfestation and promotes faster healing. Its availability in 30g tubes allows for precise application and dosing.
Active ingredient
The active ingredient, permethrin 5% w/w, is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide. It works by disrupting sodium channels in the nerve cell membranes of parasites, causing prolonged depolarisation, paralysis, and death of the mites and lice.
The cream also contains inactive ingredients such as cetylstearyl alcohol, white soft paraffin, macrogol cetostearyl ether, isopropyl myristate, benzyl alcohol, and purified water. These help the cream absorb well and be gentle on human skin [3], [4].
What is permethrin cream 5% for?
Permethrin cream 5% is used to treat scabies, a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, and crab lice (Pthirus pubis), which infest the pubic area.
Scabies causes intense itching and a rash due to an allergic reaction to the mites. It spreads easily through close skin contact. Crab lice cause itching and visible lice or eggs in pubic hair.
Permethrin cream 5% eliminates these parasites, providing relief from symptoms and stopping the spread of infection [1], [2].
How does permethrin cream 5% work?
Permethrin targets the nervous system of mites and lice. It binds to sodium channels on nerve cells, causing prolonged activation and paralysis. This paralysis stops the parasites from moving or feeding, leading to their death.
The cream also kills eggs, breaking the parasite life cycle and preventing reinfestation. Its formulation allows it to penetrate skin layers and reach burrowed mites for thorough treatment.
Permethrin is selective for parasites and has low toxicity in humans, making it safe when used as directed [3], [4].
How to use permethrin cream 5%
Apply permethrin cream 5% to clean, dry skin, covering the entire body from the neck down for scabies treatment. Pay special attention to areas where mites hide, such as between fingers and toes, under nails, wrists, waist, and under watch straps.
For crab lice, apply the cream thoroughly to the affected pubic area.
Leave the cream on for 8 to 12 hours for scabies and 24 hours for crab lice before washing off with warm water. Avoid washing treated areas during this time to maximise effectiveness.
If you wash your hands during treatment, reapply the cream to those areas [1], [4].
Warnings and precautions
Do not use permethrin cream 5% if allergic to permethrin or any other ingredients. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
Keep treated clothing and bedding away from naked flames as the cream is flammable.
Avoid using permethrin cream simultaneously with corticosteroids for skin conditions like eczema, as this may worsen symptoms.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before use.
If irritation or allergic reactions occur, stop use and seek medical advice promptly [2], [3].
Side effects
Permethrin cream 5% is generally well tolerated. Some people may experience mild side effects such as burning, stinging, redness, or increased itching at the application site. These usually resolve quickly.
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash or swelling may occur, requiring immediate medical attention [3], [4].
Drug interactions
There are no significant known drug interactions with topical permethrin. However, inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking to avoid potential issues.
Avoid combining permethrin cream with other topical treatments unless advised by a doctor [1], [3].
FAQ
How long does permethrin cream 5% take to work?
Relief from itching usually begins within a few days, but full skin healing can take up to two weeks [1].
Can I use permethrin cream 5% on children?
Yes, it is safe for children over two months old. Younger children should be treated under medical supervision [2].
Is one application enough?
Usually yes, but a second application may be needed if symptoms persist [3].
Can I use permethrin cream 5% during pregnancy?
Consult your doctor before using if pregnant or breastfeeding [4].
How should I apply permethrin cream 5%?
Apply thoroughly to clean, dry skin, covering all affected areas including under nails and between fingers and toes [1].
What if I miss a spot?
Missed areas may allow parasites to survive, so ensure complete coverage [3].
Can permethrin cream 5% cause allergic reactions?
Mild allergic reactions are possible; seek medical help if severe [2].
Can I wash the cream off early?
No, washing early reduces effectiveness. Leave on for the recommended time [1].
Can I use permethrin cream 5% on eczema?
Avoid use on broken or inflamed skin unless directed by a doctor [4].
What should I do if side effects occur?
Stop use and consult your healthcare provider if side effects persist [2].
Is permethrin cream 5% safe for pets?
No, do not use human permethrin cream on pets [3].
How do I prevent reinfestation?
Wash bedding and clothing in hot water and vacuum living areas thoroughly [1].
Can I use permethrin cream 5% for head lice?
No, it is not suitable for head lice; use products specifically for that purpose [4].
Can I use permethrin cream 5% with other skin treatments?
Consult your doctor before combining treatments [3].
How long does itching last after treatment?
Itching may continue for a few weeks despite successful treatment [1].
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