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ANTIPARASITIC PRODUCTS, INSECTICIDES AND REPELLENTS › ECTOPARASITICIDES, INCL. SCABICIDES, INSECTICIDES AND REPELLENTS › INSECTICIDES AND REPELLENTS › Pyrethrines
cypermethrin
P03BA02
Forms & Strengths
- Topical lotion 1%
- Topical shampoo 1%
Adult Dosing
- Pediculosis capitis: Apply sufficient lotion to dry hair and scalp, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Repeat application only if live lice are observed 7 to 10 days post-treatment.
Pediatric Dosing
- Pediatric patients > 2 months: Apply same as adult directions for pediculosis capitis.
- Safety and efficacy in infants under 2 months of age have not been established.
Indications
- Treatment of head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and their ova.
Mechanism of Action
- Synthetic pyrethroid that acts on the cell membrane of parasites to delay repolarization of the action potential.
- Causes paralysis and death of lice through prolonged opening of voltage-gated sodium channels.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cypermethrin, other pyrethroids, pyrethrins, or any component of the formulation.
- Application to broken skin, inflamed skin, or near open wounds.
Adverse Reactions
- Transient burning sensation
- Pruritus
- Erythema at the application site
- Scalp irritation
- Contact dermatitis
Drug Interactions
- No significant systemic drug interactions anticipated due to minimal percutaneous absorption.
- Avoid concurrent use of other topical scalp medications or irritants to minimize local skin toxicity.
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use