Lice infestations are common, particularly among schoolchildren, spreading easily via head-to-head contact or shared items. Fortunately, various medicinal treatments—over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription—effectively eliminate lice.
Table of contents
Understanding Head Lice
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) are wingless insects feeding on human blood. They lay eggs, nits, on hair shafts. Nits hatch in 7-10 days, maturing into adults in another 7-10. Adults live about 30 days, laying multiple eggs daily, making prompt treatment vital.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Lice Treatments
Many effective non-prescription treatments contain insecticides. Ingredients:
- Pyrethrins: From chrysanthemum flowers, often with piperonyl. Paralyze and kill lice. Apply to dry hair for 10 minutes, rinse. Second application 7-10 days later.
- Permethrin Lotion, 1%: Synthetic pyrethroid disrupting lice nerves. Apply to shampooed, towel-dried hair for 10 minutes, rinse. Repeat 7-10 days later.
Follow product instructions. Resistance possible.
Prescription Lice Treatments
If OTCs fail, doctor may prescribe:
- Malathion Lotion, 0.5%: Kills lice/some nits. Apply to dry hair 8-12 hours, rinse. Caution: flammable.
- Benzyl Alcohol Lotion, 5%: Suffocates lice. Apply 10 min, rinse, repeat 7 days later. Does not kill nits.
- Spinosad Topical Suspension, 0.9%: Effective on lice/nits, often single use. Apply 10 min, rinse.
- Ivermectin Lotion, 0.5%: Paralyzes and kills lice. Apply 10 min, rinse. Single application often enough.
Prescription options more efficacious. Consult professional.
Proper Application and Nit Removal
Saturate all hair. Rinse thoroughly. Manually comb nits/dead lice from wet hair, section by section. Comb every 2-3 days for weeks until nits gone.
Preventing Re-infestation
Wash bedding, clothing, contact items in hot water (130°F), dry high heat. Seal unwashable items in plastic bags 2 weeks or dry-clean. Vacuum carpets, upholstery. Inform contacts/school staff for checks.
Effective lice removal combines medicinal treatment with diligent follow-up. Instructions, correct application, nit removal are crucial. With persistence, families combat infestations, regain peace of mind.
