Page updated 30 September 2007
Ectoparasites - Recommended Treatment of Body Parasites
Introduction
These are subject to change according to National recommendations. If in doubt, check with Pharmacy Drug Information.
Treatment of Scabies
First choice
LINDANE 1% LOTION (QUELLADA): Apply over the whole body except the head and neck (except HIV and Norwegian scabies). Wash off after 12-24 hours. Repeat in 3 days.
Alternatives
MALATHION 0.5% AQUEOUS SOLUTION (DERBAC-M LOTION): may be more suitable for children or lactating women.
BENZYL BENZOATE, etc.
IVERMECTIN 200mcg/Kg body weight to the nearest 3mg as a single oral dose (unlicensed indication in human medicine in UK)
Treatment of Pediculosis (Lice)
First choice
PERMETHRIN 1% (LYCLEAR CREME RINSE): Apply to freshly shampooed hair and leave for 10 minutes before rinsing off.
Alternatives
MALATHION 0.5% SHAMPOO (PRIODERM SHAMPOO) or
MALATHION 0.5% AQUEOUS LOTION (DERBAC M):
Although these may be more acceptable and easier to use than carbaryl, they is less reliable in killing parasites and 3 applications with an interval of 3 clear days are essential. Tepid (not hot) water must be used.
PERMETHRIN 0.2% LOTION (FULL MARKS LOTION): This is an alcoholic preparation similar to Lyclear. It may be more effective but will cause more skin irritation and be poorly tolerated by asthmatics and people with sensitive or broken skin.
CARBARYL 1% AQUEOUS LOTION (DERBAC C LIQUID): This is now not recommended by the DoH and is not available off prescription. However, it is very effective and may be used in refractory cases. The lotion is sprinkled into dry hair rubbed well into the scalp and especially around the ears, then washed off with ordinary shampoo. There is no residual activity. Repeat treatment (not more often than weekly or more than 3 times) if the first application fails to kill all insects (eg from those hatched from egg cases after treatment).
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