Prescription Medicine To Kill Head Lice

Prescription Medicine To Kill Head Lice

For children under 2 years old, remove crawling bugs and nits using a nit comb. If this does not work, ask your child's health care provider for treatment recommendations. The safety of head lice medications has not been tested in children 2 years of age and under.

What are the prescription drugs used to treat head lice?

Malathion (Ovide*): When used as directed, malathion is effective in treating lice. Some medication remains on the hair and can kill newly hatched lice for seven days after treatment. Malathion is intended for use on people 6 years of age and older. Few side-effects have been reported. Malathion may sting if applied to open sores caused by scratching. The medication is flammable. Click here for instructions on how to use malathion to treat head lice.

Lindane (Kwell*): When used as directed, the drug is probably safe. Overuse, misuse, or accidentally swallowing Lindane can be toxic to the brain and other parts of the nervous system. For those reasons Lindane is generally used only if other medications have failed. Lindane should not be used if excessive scratching has caused open sores on the head. It should be used with caution in persons who weigh less than 110 pounds.

Which head lice medicine is best for me?

If you aren’t sure, ask your pharmacist or health care provider. When using the medicine, always follow the instructions on the package insert unless the physician directs otherwise.

When treating head lice:

• Do not use extra amounts of the lice medication unless instructed. These drugs are insecticides and can be dangerous when misused or overused.
• Do not treat the infested person more than 3 times with the same medication if it does not seem to work. See your health care provider for alternative medication.
• Do not mix head lice drugs.

Should household sprays be used to kill adult lice?

No. Spraying the house is NOT recommended. Fumigants and room sprays can be toxic if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Should I have a pest control company spray my house?

No, not usually. Vacuuming floors and furniture is enough to treat the household.